Defence Current Affairs MCQs

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Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, in partnership with DRDO, launches a Rs 60,000 crore project to upgrade the Su-30MKI fighter jet fleet. The initiative focuses on enhancing capabilities by integrating advanced technologies and indigenous systems. With over 50% indigenous content, India demonstrates a commitment to self-sufficiency in defense production, emphasizing a significant stride towards technological independence.

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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.

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The 5th edition of Joint Military Exercise ‘Dharma Guardian’ began at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan, India, lasting from February 25 to March 9, 2024. It involves the Indian Army and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, emphasizing joint tactical maneuvers in a simulated semi-urban setting. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability and strengthen military cooperation, aligning with Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.

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INS Tir, the flagship of the First Training Squadron, recently joined Exercise Cutlass Express – 24 in Seychelles. Held from Feb 26 to Mar 08, 2024, the exercise aims to counter malign activities in East African coastal regions and the West Indian Ocean. Sponsored by U.S. AFRICOM and led by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. Sixth Fleet, it enhances maritime security, cooperation, and interoperability among participating nations. The Indian Navy, part of the exercise since 2019, actively engaged with participants from 16 friendly foreign countries in Maritime Interdiction Operations, Visit Board Search and Seizure procedures, and Diving operations.

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INS Tushil, India’s latest naval asset, began sea trials from Russia’s Baltiysk naval base. It is the first Krivak-III frigate acquired under Project 11356M, a 2016 Inter-Governmental Agreement with Russia. The project involves four Admiral Grigorovich-class frigates, with Russia supplying two (INS Tushil and INS Tamala), and India constructing the other two. These Talwar-class frigates, based on Project 11356, are stealth-guided missile frigates tailored to Indian Navy specifications, addressing air, surface, and sub-surface dimensions.

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Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated Nausena Bhawan, Indian Navy’s new headquarters at Delhi Cantonment, consolidating operations from 13 locations. The building, selected through a nationwide competition, features three wings across four stories, incorporating innovative technologies for efficiency and sustainability. This marks the Navy’s first independent HQ in Delhi, emphasizing functionality and aesthetics in its architectural design.

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The Signals Technology Evaluation and Adaptation Group (STEAG) is a specialized unit of the Indian Army that researches and evaluates cutting-edge communication technologies for defense applications. STEAG is the first of its kind specialized unit in the Indian Army and is headed by a Colonel-rank officer from the Corps of Signals. The unit is made up of approximately 280 personnel and is poised to revolutionize communication infrastructure within the army.

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Guyana’s Defence Force has agreed to buy two Dornier 228 aircraft from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India. The twin-engine turboprop aircraft is designed for maritime patrol and is highly versatile. The aircraft will be equipped with advanced equipment such as a Glass Cockpit, Maritime Patrol Radar, Electro Optic Infra-Red device, and Mission Management System. The contract with HAL is worth Rs 458.87 crore.

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The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur and the Indian Navy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in March 2024 to promote technology development, innovative solutions, and joint R&D. The MoU was signed at Naval Headquarters, New Delhi, and will be co-ordinated by INS Shivaji, Lonavala. The collaboration focuses on joint research and development initiatives involving teams from both the Indian Navy and IIT Kharagpur.

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Bulgarian President Rumen Radev thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Indian Navy’s rescue of seven Bulgarian citizens from Somali pirates in the Indian Ocean. The MV Ruen, hijacked on December 14, 2023, marked the first Somali pirate hijacking since 2017. The Indian Navy’s operation, led by INS Kolkata, successfully rescued the crew on March 16, 2024, affirming India’s commitment to maritime security and combating piracy in the region.