Current Affairs - Defence

CSIR unveiled three Indian-made micro and small gas turbine engines—NJ-05, NJ-50 and NJ-100—on 25th August 2026. Developed by CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL), these engines generate thrusts of 5 kg, 50 kg and 100 kg respectively. They are designed for tactical UAVs, drone interceptors and compact missile systems. The development strengthens India’s indigenous propulsion capabilities and supports the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. It is also expected to reduce dependence on imported propulsion systems while creating opportunities for Indian aerospace industries and start-ups to manufacture specialised engines.

Haryana hosted the inauguration of the National Security Guard’s (NSG) first-ever Mahila Commando Conversion Course (MCCC) at the NSG Training Academy in Manesar. The 12-week specialised programme is designed for selected women personnel from State Police Forces and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). Participants receive rigorous training in physical fitness, endurance, weapon handling, marksmanship, tactical intervention, hostage rescue, and counter-terrorism operations. After completing the course, the women commandos will return to their respective forces and contribute their specialised skills. The initiative aims to increase women’s operational capabilities and strengthen coordination among India’s security forces.

New Delhi hosted the 25th India–UK Defence Consultative Group (DCG) meeting on August 21, 2026. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral defence industrial cooperation between India and the United Kingdom. It was co-chaired by Indian Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and UK Permanent Under Secretary for Defence Jeremy Pocklington. Discussions included reviewing the India–UK Vision 2035 and advancing research and development under the Ten-year Defence Industrial Roadmap. Both sides also agreed to expand military cooperation through joint exercises, training, and capacity building. The UK delegation additionally visited the National War Memorial, Gandhi Smriti Museum, and National Defence College.

DRDO transferred the technology for the development of the Submarine-Fired Decoy (SFD) to Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) for indigenous production. The technology transfer agreement was signed by the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), a DRDO laboratory specialising in naval warfare and underwater defence technologies. The SFD is designed as a countermeasure system to protect submarines from incoming torpedoes by generating false signals and signatures that can mislead hostile torpedoes. The initiative strengthens India’s underwater defence capabilities, reduces dependence on foreign manufacturers, and supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision in defence manufacturing.

Cochin Shipyard Limited delivered Mangrol, the third Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), to the Indian Navy on August 21, 2026. The vessel has more than 80% indigenous content and is designed for underwater surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, coastal operations, low-intensity maritime operations, and mine warfare. Equipped with torpedoes, anti-submarine rockets, radar, and sonar systems, Mangrol enhances the Navy’s capabilities in shallow and coastal waters. Its delivery also supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative by strengthening India’s indigenous defence shipbuilding and reducing dependence on foreign technology and manufacturing.