Current Affairs - Defence

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed the Sea Water Desalination System (SWaDeS), a portable water purifier designed for soldiers operating in remote, coastal, and high-altitude areas. This lightweight, hand-operated system can convert saline water into potable water, supporting the hydration needs of 10–12 personnel per unit, while the engine-operated version can serve 20–25 soldiers. SWaDeS enhances operational self-sufficiency, reduces dependence on water supply lines, and ensures safe drinking water during long patrols and deployments in challenging terrains like coastal regions and the Pangong Tso area in Ladakh.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) celebrated its 68th Foundation Day on January 1, 2026, marking nearly seven decades of contributions to India’s defence and security infrastructure. DRDO operates 52 laboratories and focuses on key domains such as Cyber, Space, and Artificial Intelligence, aligning with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative to strengthen India’s self-reliance in defence. In 2025, it secured 22 AoN approvals worth Rs.1.30 lakh crore, signed 11 defence contracts worth Rs.26,000 crore, and completed 245 technology transfer agreements (LAToT). DRDO continues to drive indigenous defence research, industry collaborations, and operational readiness, making it central to India’s strategic and technological advancement.

The ₹293 crore contract for the Suryastra Rocket System marks a significant step in strengthening India’s indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem. NIBE Limited, in collaboration with Israel, is responsible for delivering this advanced weapon system to the Indian Army. The Suryastra system is India’s first indigenously manufactured universal multi-calibre rocket launcher, capable of firing multiple rocket types from a single platform. With precision strike ranges of up to 300 km and the ability to deploy loitering munitions up to 100 km, NIBE Limited’s involvement highlights India’s growing emphasis on technological self-reliance and modern military capabilities.

The Indian Army has created a new modern warfare force named Bhairav to strengthen its capabilities in technology-driven battlefields. Bhairav is designed as a drone-centric combat force with over one lakh trained drone operatives, making it one of the largest such units globally. Each soldier is trained in advanced drone operations, enabling real-time surveillance, precision strikes, and battlefield intelligence gathering. The Bhairav battalions are structured to carry out Special Forces–like missions, bridge the operational gap between Para Special Forces and regular infantry units, and enhance India’s readiness for future multi-domain warfare scenarios.

Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor took over as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force, bringing with him extensive operational, command, and administrative experience. A seasoned fighter pilot with over 3,400 flying hours, Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor has flown frontline aircraft such as the MiG-21 and MiG-29 and contributed significantly to the induction of PC-7 Mk II trainer aircraft. An alumnus of NDA, DSSC, and NDC, he has held several key command and staff appointments and has been honoured with prestigious decorations including PVSM, AVSM, VM, and SYSM for distinguished service.