Current Affairs search results for tag: defence
By admin: June 30, 2023

1. Biggest air exercise 'Tarang Shakti'

Tags: Defence

Biggest-air-exercise-'Tarang-Shakti'The Indian Air Force is making preparations to organize a large-scale multilateral exercise later this year, aimed at enhancing military cooperation with 12 nations.

An overview of the news

  • The exercise, named Tarang Shakti, is set to be the largest air exercise ever conducted in India, showcasing the country's commitment to strengthening international military partnerships.

  • Among others, air forces of France, Australia, the US and the UK are likely to participate in the exercise .

  • The participating countries will contribute their military combat jets, as well as transport aircraft and other assets, showcasing their collective capabilities and fostering interoperability.

  • Tarang Shakti will provide a platform for air forces from different nations to engage in joint training, exchange knowledge, and improve coordination in various operational scenarios.

  • The exercise aims to enhance the mutual understanding and compatibility between the participating air forces, promoting regional stability and security.

  • By hosting this mega-multilateral exercise, India seeks to demonstrate its commitment to regional cooperation and its capability to conduct large-scale joint military operations.

  • The exercise will provide valuable insights into the operational capabilities of different air forces, facilitating the exchange of best practices and fostering stronger military ties.

  • Earlier in 2023, IAF took part in Exercise Orion in France and INIOCHOS in Greece.

  • In April, the IAF and the USAF had taken part in a joint exercise in Cope India-2023 across Kalaikunda, Panagarh and Agra bases.

By admin: June 26, 2023

2. IAF conducts Rannvijay exercise with focus on integrated operations

Tags: Defence National News

IAF-conducts-RannvijayThe Indian Air Force recently conducted Exercise Ranvijay, a series of integrated wargames aimed at enhancing the skills of fighter pilots through day and night operations involving combat aircraft like Su-30s.

An overview of the news

  • The exercise took place in the UB Hills and Central Air Command Area of Responsibility from June 16 to June 23. 

  • It involved the execution of full spectrum operations by all combat assets, with a particular emphasis on integrated operations and the optimal utilization of the Indian Air Force's electronic warfare capabilities.

  • The exercise was carried out from various air bases under the Central Air Command, which is headquartered in Prayagraj.

  • Different commands within the Indian Air Force, along with the Army and Navy, have been conducting wargames to enhance coordination and strengthen integration among the forces.

  • After addressing various concerns, the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force have reached a consensus to proceed with the plan for establishing theatre commands, which will further enhance coordination and synergy among the three services.

By admin: June 26, 2023

3. INS Sunayna visits Mombasa, Kenya to strengthen bilateral ties

Tags: Defence International News

INS-Sunayna-visits-Mombasa,-Kenya-to-strengthen-bilateral-tiesINS Sunayna visited Mombasa, Kenya, with the aim of strengthening bilateral ties with maritime neighbors under the theme of Ocean Ring of Yoga.

An overview of the news

  • The Commanding Officer of INS Sunayna held a meeting with Brigadier Y S Abdi, Deputy Commander of the Kenya Navy, and emphasized the significance of Yoga in fostering unity and bringing the world closer together.

  • On the occasion of the International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2023, a joint Yoga session was conducted onboard INS Sunayna, involving Indian Navy personnel and members of the Kenyan Defence Forces.

  • A Maritime Partnership Exercise took place between the Indian and Kenyan navies, where drills related to firefighting, damage control, boarding exercises, asymmetric threat simulations, and VBSS (Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure) operations were carried out during the harbor phase.

  • An onboard Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) capsule was also conducted to enhance the capabilities of the Kenya Navy.

  • In honor of General Francis Ogolla, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of the Kenyan Defence Forces, a reception was hosted onboard INS Sunayna by Vice Admiral Sanjay Mahindru, Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff. 

  • The event was attended by Namgya Khampa, the High Commissioner of India in Nairobi.

  • As a symbol of goodwill, the Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff gifted 200 life jackets to Major General Jimson Muthai, Commander of the Kenya Navy.

  • Prior to departure from Mombasa, INS Sunayna conducted a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Kenya Naval Ship Jasiri on June 23, 2023, further strengthening the maritime cooperation between the two navies.

By admin: June 24, 2023

4. New Russian frigates will be armed with hypersonic Zircon missiles

Tags: Defence International News

New-Russian-frigates-will-be-armed-with-hypersonic-Zircon-missilesThe Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy has recently made an announcement stating that all new frigate and corvette class vessels of the Russian Navy will be equipped with hypersonic Zircon missiles. 

About Zircon Missile

  • The Zircon Missile, also known as the 3M22 Zircon or SS-N-33, is a hypersonic cruise missile developed in Russia.

  • It is designed as an anti-ship missile with advanced capabilities.

Characteristics of Zircon Missile

  • The Zircon Missile can achieve speeds of over 9,500 kilometers per hour (6,000 miles per hour), which is approximately nine times the speed of sound.

  • It is a two-stage missile, utilizing solid fuel in the first stage and a scramjet motor in the second stage.

  • The missile has a range of more than 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) and is capable of accurately pinpointing targets within that range.

  • The Zircon Missile employs an active and passive radar seeker as its guidance system.

Hypersonic Cruise Missiles

  • Hypersonic cruise missiles are a type of missile designed to travel at extremely high speeds, typically exceeding Mach 5 (five times the speed of sound).

  • They are propelled by rocket engines and are equipped with guidance systems for target navigation.

  • One notable characteristic of hypersonic cruise missiles is their ability to maneuver during flight, making them difficult to track and intercept.

By admin: June 22, 2023

5. India-United States Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS X) launched in Washington DC

Tags: International Relations Defence International News

India-United-States-Defence-Acceleration-Ecosystem-(INDUS-X)The U.S. Department of Defense and the Indian Ministry of Defense launched the India-U S Defense Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X) on 21st June at an event hosted by the U S-India Business Council.

An overview of the news

  • The launch of INDUS-X is a major milestone in promoting US-India defense cooperation, innovation, and job creation.

  • The initiative seeks to enhance defense capabilities and contribute to global peace, security and prosperity while reaffirming commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Significance of INDUS-X

  • INDUS-X aims to revitalize defense industrial cooperation between the United States and India, promoting the development of new technologies and fostering collaboration in manufacturing. 

  • It represents a strategic effort to strengthen bilateral ties and unlock the potential for advancements in the defense sector.

Job Creation and Economic Growth

  • INDUS-X holds the potential to create job opportunities for working families in both countries. 

  • By fostering collaboration between U S and Indian start-ups, the initiative aims to generate employment and drive economic growth, contributing to global peace, security, and prosperity.

Collaboration Agenda

  • This agenda outlines various initiatives that INDUS-X stakeholders intend to pursue, complementing existing government-to-government collaboration. 

  • These initiatives include the formation of a Senior Advisory Group for Start-ups.

Indo-Pacific Defence Capabilities

  • U S and Indian officials have affirmed that INDUS-X will act as a catalyst for innovation and contribute to equipping their armed forces with the necessary capabilities to ensure the defense of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. 

  • This emphasizes the shared commitment to regional security and stability.

By admin: June 20, 2023

6. India gifts missile corvette INS Kirpan to Vietnam

Tags: International Relations Defence International News

India-gifts-missile-corvette-INS-Kirpan-to-VietnamDefense Minister Rajnath Singh on 19 June announced the gift of an indigenous in-service missile corvette, INS Kirpan, to the Vietnam People's Navy.

An overview of the news

  • The announcement is expected to significantly enhance the capabilities of the Vietnamese Navy.

  • The announcement was made during talks between Defense Minister Singh and Defense Minister of Vietnam General Phan Van Gang in Delhi.

  • During the meeting, bilateral defense cooperation initiatives between India and Vietnam were reviewed and both sides expressed satisfaction at the progress of the ongoing engagements.

  • The Ministers identified opportunities to further enhance cooperation, particularly in areas such as defense industry cooperation, maritime security and multinational cooperation.

  • Apart from the talks, the Defense Minister of Vietnam also visited the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) headquarters to explore ways to enhance defense industrial capabilities through research and joint production.

  • The strengthening of defense ties between India and Vietnam underscores the strategic partnership between the two countries and their shared commitment to regional security and cooperation.

About INS Kirpan

  • INS Kirpan is a missile corvette belonging to the Khukri class with a displacement of about 1,350 tonnes.

  • It was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 12 January 1991.

  • The length of the corvette is 91 meters and the beam is 11 metres.

  • It is capable of attaining speeds of over 25 knots.

  • Equipped with a variety of weapons including medium-range cannon, 30 mm close-range gun, chaff launcher and surface-to-surface missiles, INS Kirpan has the versatility to play multiple roles.

  • The roles performed by INS Kirpan include coastal and offshore patrolling, coastal security, surface warfare, anti-piracy operations and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.

By admin: June 20, 2023

7. Joint Exercise 'Khaan Quest’ 2023'

Tags: Defence International News

Joint-Exercise-'Khaan-Quest’-2023

With the participation of military contingents and observers from more than 20 countries, the multinational peacekeeping joint exercise "Ex Khan Quest 2023" began in Mongolia on 19 June.

An overview of the news

  • The ceremony was inaugurated by Mongolian President Ukhnagin Khurelsukh at the exercise site.

  • The exercise is jointly sponsored by the Mongolian Armed Forces (MAF) and the United States Army Pacific Command (USARPAC).

  • The Indian Army is being represented by a contingent of the Garhwal Rifles.

Purpose of the exercise

  • The 14-day exercise aims to improve interoperability among the participating countries, facilitate exchange of experiences and provide training to uniformed personnel for United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (UNPKO).

Significance of exercise

  • The exercise will help prepare participants for future UN peacekeeping operations, enhance peacekeeping capabilities and improve military preparedness.

  • It includes various activities like Command Post Exercise (CPX), Field Training Exercise (FTX), Combat Discussion, Lectures and Demonstrations.

  • This military exercise will strengthen defense cooperation between the Indian Army and the participating countries, especially the Mongolian Armed Forces, thereby enhancing bilateral relations between India and Mongolia.

About Mongolia 

  • It is located in North Central Asia.

  • Capital:  Ulaanbaatar 

  • Currency: Tugrik

  • President: Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh

By admin: June 19, 2023

8. DAC approves procurement of armed UAV MQ-9 Predator drones from US

Tags: National Defence National News

UAV-MQ-9India’s defence ministry on 15th June approved the acquisition of 31 MQ-9B armed drones from the US.

An overview of the news

  • The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the purchase of armed Predator Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) at a cost of over $3 billion.

  • The UAVs will be procured from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI), a United States-based aeronautical company.

What are Predator Drones?

  • The Predator UAV, produced by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI), is commonly referred to as the MQ-9.

  • The MQ-9 has an impressive endurance, capable of flying for over 27 hours without refueling.

  • It can reach speeds of up to 240 KTAS (Knots True Airspeed).

  • The UAV is designed to operate at high altitudes, with a maximum operating ceiling of 50,000 feet.

  • It possesses a substantial payload capacity, allowing it to carry up to 3,850 pounds (1,746 kilograms) of equipment, sensors, or other mission-specific payloads.

  • Additionally, the MQ-9 has the capability to carry external stores, such as weapons or additional fuel, with a maximum weight of 3,000 pounds (1,361 kilograms).

Benefits of the MQ-9 UAV

  • The MQ-9 UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) exhibits an increased payload capacity and horsepower in comparison to its predecessor, the MQ-1 Predator.

  • It offers extended endurance, persistent surveillance, and the ability to carry out strikes, providing valuable capabilities for military operations.

  • The MQ-9 UAV has a maritime variant known as the Sea Guardian.

  • The Sea Guardian variant of the MQ-9 UAV possesses an impressive endurance capability of over 30 hours, making it suitable for maritime surveillance and other related missions.

By admin: June 16, 2023

9. Indian Navy's Outreach Program "Jully Ladakh" (Hello Ladakh)

Tags: Defence

The Indian Navy recently has launched an outreach program called "Julley Ladakh" (Hello Ladakh) to increase awareness about the Navy and engage with the youth and civil society in the pristine state of Ladakh. 

An overview of the news

  • As part of this initiative, a 5000 km Motorcycle Expedition was flagged off from the National War Memorial on June 15, 2023, by Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh, the Vice Chief of Naval Staff.

  • This outreach program follows the successful efforts of the Indian Navy in the North East region and the Sam No Varunah car expedition, which aimed to connect with citizens in coastal states.

Outreach activities

  • The outreach activities planned for this program include a Motor Cycle Expedition that will pass through a significant part of Ladakh.

  • In addition the famous Navy band concert, a medical camp, and a football match between the Navy and the Ladakh Football Club have also been organised.

Key objectives of the "Julley Ladakh" initiative

  • Celebrate Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, which marks 75 years of Indian Independence.

  • Conduct awareness drives at schools and colleges in Ladakh to highlight the career opportunities offered by the Indian Navy, including the Agnipath Scheme.

  • Motivate the youth to consider joining the Indian Navy.

  • Showcase "Nari Shakti," an initiative of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, by including women officers and spouses in the program.

  • Interact with naval veterans and Veer Naris (war widows) in the region.

By admin: June 16, 2023

10. Defence Ministry signs Rs 500 crore contract to strengthen Indian Army’s communication system

Tags: Defence National News

Defence-Ministry-signs-Rs-500-crore-contractIn a significant move to promote indigenous manufacturing and support the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with ICOMM Tele Limited, Hyderabad, on June 15, 2023, in New Delhi. 

An overview of the news

  • The contract is for the procurement of 1,035 units of 5/7.5 Ton Radio Relay Communication equipment containers, with a contract value of approximately Rs 500 crore. 

  • The delivery of these containers is scheduled to commence in the current financial year 2023-24.

  • The acquisition of these Radio Relay Containers fulfills a long-pending requirement for mobile communication detachments of the Indian Army. 

  • These containers will play a crucial role in providing a protected environment for communication equipment, ensuring its efficient and reliable functioning. 

  • To support the indigenous manufacturing of defence equipment, the company, ICOMM Tele Limited, will produce these containers using equipment and systems sourced entirely from indigenous manufacturers. 

Significance of MoU

  • This approach will not only enhance domestic production capabilities but also encourage the active participation of the private sector in achieving the goals of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. 

  • By investing in domestic manufacturing and promoting self-reliance in the defence sector, the Ministry of Defence aims to strengthen India's defence capabilities while reducing dependency on foreign imports. 

  • This contract marks a significant step towards achieving the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and stimulating the growth of the indigenous defence industry.