Current Affairs - Defence

The 7th edition of Exercise Dustlik in 2026 is being hosted by Uzbekistan at the Gurumsaray Field Training Area in Namangan. This joint military exercise between India and Uzbekistan is conducted annually, with hosting responsibilities alternating between the two countries. It focuses on enhancing coordination and interoperability in special operations, especially in challenging terrains like mountainous and urban regions. The exercise also promotes defence cooperation, strengthens bilateral relations, and enables both armies to share best practices, thereby contributing to improved readiness and regional stability.

The Naval Commanders’ Conference-2026 was conducted at Nausena Bhawan, the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Navy), located in New Delhi. The event brought together senior naval officials and operational commanders to deliberate on strategic priorities such as combat readiness, energy security, and adoption of emerging technologies. Being hosted in the national capital highlights the importance of centralised defence coordination and decision-making. The conference also emphasised strengthening India’s maritime presence in the Indian Ocean Region and enhancing cooperation with friendly foreign countries through joint initiatives.

In April 2026, GE Aerospace entered into a significant technical agreement with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the co-production of F414 jet engines in India. This collaboration aims to strengthen India–U.S. defence manufacturing ties and enhance indigenous production capabilities. The engines are intended to power the Tejas Mark-2 fighter aircraft, an advanced version of India’s Light Combat Aircraft. The agreement builds upon a Memorandum of Understanding signed in June 2022 and reflects over four decades of partnership between the two entities in the aerospace sector, supporting India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Uzbekistan hosted and participated in the 7th edition of the joint military Exercise DUSTLIK alongside India in April 2026. Conducted at the Gurumsaray Field Training Area, the exercise involved personnel from the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Uzbekistan’s armed forces. This annual exercise is held alternately between the two countries and focuses on enhancing operational coordination in semi-mountainous terrain. Activities included land navigation, strike missions, and capturing enemy positions. Such joint drills strengthen military cooperation, improve interoperability, and reinforce strategic defence ties between India and Uzbekistan.

Kenya received INSAS rifles and ammunition from the Indian Navy during the port call of INS Trikand at Mombasa. The handover was conducted by senior naval officials as part of strengthening bilateral defence cooperation. This initiative aligns with India’s MAHASAGAR vision, which focuses on regional security and growth. In addition to the equipment transfer, joint tactical exercises such as Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) and training sessions on handling small arms were conducted. These activities highlight India’s commitment to enhancing maritime partnerships and defence collaboration with countries in the Indian Ocean region.