Current Affairs - Defence

BHEL entered into a significant agreement with the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory for the transfer of technology related to the LM2500 Gas Turbine Infrared Suppression System. This system is crucial for reducing infrared signatures of naval vessels, thereby enhancing stealth and survivability in maritime operations. The agreement includes fabrication, installation, and commissioning of the system for deployment on Indian Navy ships. Developed indigenously under DRDO, this collaboration aligns with the Make in India initiative, promoting self-reliance in advanced defence technologies and strengthening India’s naval capabilities.

Sri Lanka participated with India in the fourth edition of the bilateral diving exercise IN-SLN DIVEX 2026, conducted in Colombo. The exercise involved coordinated operations between the Indian Navy and the Sri Lankan Navy, focusing on advanced underwater diving techniques, rescue missions, and salvage operations. Activities included deep-sea dives beyond 55 metres and exploration of historical shipwrecks. The collaboration also highlighted strong defence ties, with India providing medical assistance under the Aarogya Maitri initiative. Such exercises strengthen regional maritime cooperation and enhance operational capabilities between the two neighbouring countries.

Meghalaya served as the host state for the inaugural multilateral military exercise Pragati, organised by the Indian Army. The exercise was conducted at the Foreign Training Node in Umroi and involved participation from 11 friendly nations. It focused on enhancing interoperability, conducting joint tactical drills, and strengthening regional security cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region. The initiative reflects India’s commitment to fostering defence partnerships and promoting stability in a strategically important maritime zone. Hosting such exercises also boosts the strategic significance of northeastern states in India’s defence and international military collaboration efforts.

Fifth is the position held by India in global military spending as of 2025, reflecting its growing strategic and defense priorities amid evolving geopolitical challenges. The country’s defense expenditure reached $92.1 billion, showing a significant increase from the previous year. This rise highlights India’s focus on modernising its armed forces, enhancing technological capabilities, and strengthening national security. The allocation also includes major investments in advanced equipment such as fighter jets, drones, and warships. Additionally, India’s diversified arms import strategy indicates a shift toward reducing dependency on a single supplier while boosting domestic defence capabilities.

The Advanced Armoured Platforms, including both tracked and wheeled variants, were unveiled on April 25, 2026, at the Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (VRDE) in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra. The unveiling was carried out under the leadership of DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat, highlighting the pivotal role of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in advancing India’s indigenous defence capabilities. These platforms feature modern weapon systems, high-level ballistic protection, amphibious mobility, and significant indigenous content. DRDO continues to play a crucial role as India’s premier defence R&D agency under the Ministry of Defence.