Current Affairs - Defence

The Sudarshan Chakra Mission envisions India developing a fully indigenous multi-layered air defence system by 2035. This shield aims to protect both strategic military assets and civilian infrastructure from aerial threats, including drones, missiles, and fighter jets. The system will integrate radar networks, AI-driven sensors, missile interceptors, and directed energy weapons, ensuring nationwide coverage. The initiative underscores India’s focus on self-reliance in defence technology, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers, enhancing deterrence against regional adversaries, and safeguarding civilian and critical infrastructure across the country.

The SLINEX-25 naval exercise is being held in Sri Lanka, with the harbour phase in Colombo and the sea phase in nearby waters from 14–18 August 2025. Indian naval vessels INS Rana and INS Jyoti are joined by Sri Lanka’s SLNS Gajabahu and SLNS Vijayabahu, along with assets from the Sri Lanka Air Force. Activities include gunnery drills, seamanship exercises, VBSS operations, and cultural exchanges. This 12th edition of SLINEX reflects the strong naval partnership under India’s MAHASAGAR initiative, aimed at enhancing maritime interoperability, strengthening trust, and building collective security in the Indian Ocean Region against common challenges.

The government has announced the establishment of two new Defence Industrial Corridors in Maharashtra and Assam, aimed at strengthening India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in the defence sector. These corridors will enhance indigenous manufacturing, reduce import dependency, and create significant employment opportunities in advanced defence production. Building on the success of the existing corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, the new ones are expected to foster collaboration between public sector units, private firms, startups, and academia. Maharashtra’s clusters will leverage its strong industrial base, while Assam’s corridor will promote regional growth and integration into national defence manufacturing.

The Border Security Force (BSF) launched ‘Operation Alert’ along the Rajasthan border to strengthen security measures in the lead-up to Independence Day. The operation focuses on enhancing vigilance through intensified patrols, conducting drills, and reviewing standard operating procedures (SOPs). Such measures are vital to ensure strict border management, prevent infiltration, and address emerging security challenges. The review and improvement of SOPs and instructions further demonstrate the BSF’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s frontiers. This operation underscores the proactive steps taken by India’s primary border-guarding force to maintain peace, security, and readiness during sensitive national occasions.

On 26 August 2025, the Indian Navy will achieve a historic first by commissioning two advanced stealth frigates, INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri, on the same day at Visakhapatnam. Both ships are part of Project 17A, featuring stealth-optimised hulls, advanced propulsion systems, and formidable multi-role weaponry. INS Udaygiri was built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, while INS Himgiri was constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers. This event not only marks a milestone in India’s naval modernisation and indigenous shipbuilding but also showcases the country’s industrial strength, involving over 200 MSMEs and generating thousands of direct and indirect jobs.