Defence Current Affairs MCQs

Notes:
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) handed over the Medium Range-Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rocket (MR-MOCR) to the Indian Navy in New Delhi. Developed by DRDO’s Defence Laboratory in Jodhpur, this technology obscures radar signals and creates a microwave shield to reduce radar detection. The chaff rocket uses special fibers with unique microwave obscuration properties, assembled to enhance radar evasion capabilities.

Notes:
The Russian Black Sea Fleet recently launched Kalibr cruise missiles, targeting Ukrainian infrastructure. Kalibr missiles, developed by Russia’s Almaz-Antey, can be launched from various platforms and serve anti-ship, anti-submarine, and land attack roles. They vary in size, ranging from 1,300 kg to 2,300 kg, with ranges spanning 200 km to 2500 km. Featuring advanced guidance systems and high explosive warheads, Kalibr missiles can accelerate to supersonic speeds to evade defenses in the terminal phase.

Notes:
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently completed six successful trials of the High Speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) ‘ABHYAS’ in Chandipur, Odisha. Designed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Larsen & Toubro, ABHYAS provides realistic threat scenarios for weapon systems practice. It features autonomous flying, a laptop-based Ground Control System, and data recording capabilities for post-flight analysis.

Notes:
The Indian Army commenced the Maitree exercise with the Royal Thai Army at Fort Vachiraprakan, Thailand, from 1 to 15 July 2024. Initiated in 2006, this bilateral exercise enhances defense cooperation. Seventy-six personnel from both armies, including the Ladakh Scouts, participate. The exercise focuses on counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in urban and jungle environments, joint planning, tactical drills, and physical fitness.

Notes:
The 16th India-Mongolia Joint Military Exercise Nomadic Elephant started at Umroi, Meghalaya, running from July 3 to 16, 2024. It involves 45 Indian personnel and Mongolian Army’s 150 Quick Reaction Force Battalion. The annual event, alternating between the countries, focuses on counter-insurgency in semi-urban and mountainous terrain. Key attendees include Mongolian Ambassador Dambajavyn Ganbold and Major General Prasanna Joshi. The exercise enhances interoperability and defense cooperation.

Notes:
The Chief of the Air Staff inaugurated the Weapon Systems School (WSS) at Air Force Station Begumpet, Hyderabad. The WSS aims to modernize the Indian Air Force (IAF) by providing effect-based, contemporary training to officers of the newly formed branch. Flight Cadets in the WS Branch will undertake their second semester of training at this institute, aligning with the IAF’s future-oriented goals.

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The U.S. military is developing the LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with Northrop Grumman and Air Force Global Strike Command. This new ICBM will replace the 400 LGM-30 Minuteman III missiles, in service since the 1970s. The Sentinel features digital engineering, modular architecture, and a W87-1 thermonuclear warhead. With a range exceeding 5,500km, it can hit any target globally within 30 minutes.

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NATO recently signed a nearly $700 million contract to produce more Stinger missiles. The FIM-92 Stinger is a man-portable surface-to-air missile system (MANPADS) designed by the American Defense Industry and entered U.S. Army service in 1981. Used by U.S. forces and 29 other countries, it’s manufactured by Raytheon and EADS. The lightweight missile, with a passive infrared seeker and “fire-and-forget” capability, provides air defense for troops. It can hit targets up to 11,500 feet and has a range of 5 miles. The launcher, which weighs about 15 kilograms, is reusable and can be carried or vehicle-mounted for short-range defense.

Notes:
Armenia’s interest in India’s Pralay missile presents a significant opportunity for India. The Pralay missile is a 350-500 km short-range, quasi-ballistic surface-to-surface missile with a 500-1,000 kg payload, developed by DRDO for defense needs. It features solid-fuel propulsion, inertial guidance, and a DSMAC seeker for terminal guidance. Capable of evasive maneuvers, it has various warhead options and a reduced radar signature.

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India plans to enhance defense capabilities by constructing military airfields in the Lakshadweep islands, including a new airbase on Minicoy island and expanding Agatti island’s airfield. These dual-purpose airfields will support all fighter and transport aircraft, long-range drones, and commercial airlines. Aimed at countering Chinese activities and extending surveillance in the Arabian Sea, this Indian Air Force-led project will boost defense and tourism.