Current Affairs - Defence

The ICGS Adamya, the first of eight Adamya-class Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), was commissioned at Paradip Port in Odisha. Built by Goa Shipyard Limited, this vessel enhances India’s coastal security and patrolling capabilities. Paradip Port, established in 1962 by Late Biju Patnaik and declared India’s eighth major port in 1966, is Odisha’s only major port. Located at the confluence of the Mahanadi River and the Bay of Bengal, the port plays a crucial role in maritime trade and strategic naval operations. Commissioning of ICGS Adamya here highlights the port’s significance in India’s defence infrastructure.

The 16th Combined Commanders’ Conference (CCC) was held in Kolkata, West Bengal, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed the preparedness and security measures of the Armed Forces. The theme for the 2025 conference was set as ‘Year of Reforms – Transformation for the Future’. The CCC, first held in 1953, is recognised as the highest-level defence dialogue forum that brings together India’s political leadership and senior military commanders. Conducted once every two years, this platform plays a key role in shaping strategic defence policies, reviewing security scenarios, and ensuring military readiness for future challenges.

INS Nistar, India’s indigenously built Diving Support Vessel, took part in Exercise Pacific Reach 2025 held in Singapore. This biennial event brings together more than 40 nations to strengthen submarine rescue capabilities and maritime cooperation. During the exercise, INS Nistar acted as the mothership for Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicles (DSRV), playing a vital role in the operations. The drill was structured in two phases – Harbour and Sea – to comprehensively test coordination, preparedness, and technical proficiency. Participation in such multinational exercises not only enhances India’s naval capabilities but also promotes stronger defence ties with global partners.

The DSC A22, which is the third vessel in the five-ship Diving Support Craft project, was launched in Kolkata. This vessel has been constructed by Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd under a Ministry of Defence contract signed in 2021. The Diving Support Crafts are designed for crucial naval functions like submarine rescue, salvage operations, underwater inspection, hull cleaning, and diver training. Their construction follows the rules of the Indian Register of Shipping and involves hydrodynamic testing at NSTL, Visakhapatnam. The launch in Kolkata highlights the city’s growing role in India’s indigenous naval shipbuilding program.

Tata Advanced Systems successfully installed the first Lanza-N 3D Air Surveillance Radar, a naval variant of Indra’s radar, on an Indian warship. This milestone was part of a $145-million agreement signed in 2020. Over the next decade, Tata will locally assemble and integrate 19 additional radars for the Indian Navy. The Lanza-N radar system is designed for advanced long-range air defence and anti-missile operations, making it highly suitable for the demanding conditions of the Indian Ocean. This initiative highlights Tata’s growing role in strengthening India’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities and enhancing naval preparedness.