Current Affairs - Defence

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) signed a long-term contract with Safran Aircraft Engines in July 2026 to manufacture and supply critical turbine ring forgings made from superalloys for the CFM LEAP engine programme. The components will be produced at HAL's Foundry and Forge Division in Bengaluru using advanced near-net shape ring forging technology for high-temperature engine applications. The agreement was signed during the Farnborough International Airshow in the United Kingdom. This partnership strengthens HAL's role in the global aerospace supply chain, expands its presence in the international civil aviation market, and supports the production of one of the world's most widely used commercial aircraft engines.

Operation Kusha refers to the indigenous long-range surface-to-air missile programme developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Its maiden flight test was successfully conducted on July 23, 2026, from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast. During the test, the missile accurately tracked and intercepted a high-speed electronic aerial target, validating its radar, guidance, command, and control systems. Designed to counter aircraft, missiles, UAVs, and other fast-moving aerial threats, the fully indigenous system is expected to significantly strengthen India's multi-layered air defence network after further operational evaluations.

Yantur 4.5kN is an indigenous turbofan engine unveiled by Paninian India Private Ltd on July 20, 2026, to power combat drones and long-range cruise missiles. The engine generates 4.5 kN of thrust and can be scaled up to 12.5 kN for larger autonomous combat platforms. It has been developed to support the Ministry of Defence's Make-I programme for the Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM). The project incorporates advanced technologies, including compressor innovations, digital-twin health monitoring, and indigenous manufacturing techniques, strengthening India's self-reliance in aerospace propulsion systems and reducing dependence on foreign technology.

Assam was the focus of Operation Jal Rahat, launched by the Indian Army on July 21, 2026, to carry out large-scale rescue and relief operations in flood-affected areas. The mission covered seven affected districts, including Charaideo, Sivasagar, and Jorhat, with support from the Assam Rifles and coordination from the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA). More than 57,100 people were affected by the floods, with Charaideo being the worst-hit district. The Indian Air Force was also placed on standby to provide aerial assistance if the flood situation worsened.

Exercise Pitch Black 2026 is being hosted in Australia at the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Darwin from 20 July to 7 August 2026. It is the Royal Australian Air Force's premier biennial multinational air combat exercise, focusing on advanced air warfare, including night flying and Large Force Employment operations. The Indian Air Force is participating with Rafale fighter aircraft, C-17 Globemaster-III strategic airlifters, and IL-78 air-to-air refuelling aircraft, along with a contingent of pilots, engineers, technicians, and controllers. India's continued participation reflects its commitment to enhancing interoperability, operational readiness, and defence cooperation with friendly nations.