Current Affairs - Defence

The Fast Patrol Vessel ‘Atal’ was launched in Goa by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), a premier Defence Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Defence. This launch is part of a series of eight indigenously built FPVs, underscoring India’s emphasis on self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The vessel, measuring 52 meters in length with a displacement of 320 tonnes, is designed for diverse roles including coastal patrol, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy, and search and rescue operations. The launch in Goa signifies a crucial boost to India’s maritime capabilities and its strategic preparedness in safeguarding its vast coastal and offshore assets.

Operation Mahadev was a high-intensity counter-terrorism mission launched by the Indian Army, CRPF, and Jammu & Kashmir Police in the Dara region near Dachigam National Park. Acting on credible intelligence, the forces engaged and neutralised three Pakistani Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists suspected to be linked with the deadly Pahalgam attack of April 2025. The encounter involved drone surveillance, rapid deployment, and coordinated action, highlighting India's growing reliance on technology and joint-force synergy in counter-insurgency efforts. Operation Mahadev not only marked a tactical success but also reinforced regional security by targeting militant hideouts in challenging terrain close to Srinagar.

‘Bold Kurukshetra 2025’ is a bilateral joint military exercise conducted between India and Singapore, aimed at enhancing urban warfare capabilities, counter-terrorism readiness, and joint tactical operations. Held in the desert terrain of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, the exercise showcases the growing strategic defence partnership between the Indian Army and the Singapore Armed Forces. It features advanced combat simulations, use of modern technology, and real-time strategic coordination to strengthen interoperability. This exercise is part of broader military cooperation that includes naval and air engagements like SIMBEX and Joint Air Training, reinforcing both countries’ commitment to regional security and Indo-Pacific stability.

The ULPGM-V3, also known as ULM-ER (Extended Range), is the latest and most advanced variant of India’s indigenous UAV-launched precision Guided Missile series developed by DRDO. Successfully test-fired at the National Open Area Range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, the ULPGM-V3 integrates precision targeting with unmanned aerial systems. It features a fire-and-forget mechanism, passive homing via an imaging infrared seeker, and a dual-thrust propulsion system. With a range of up to 4 km in daylight and 2.5 km at night, it is capable of neutralising both static and moving targets. This milestone reflects India's growing defence autonomy and technological advancement.

The Indian Army received its first batch of Apache AH-64E attack helicopters from the United States, marking a key milestone in India's military modernisation. These advanced helicopters, developed by Boeing, offer cutting-edge combat capabilities including Hellfire and Stinger missiles, modern avionics, and high survivability in diverse terrains. The acquisition, finalised through a government-to-government deal, reflects the deepening defence partnership between India and the U.S. The Apache helicopters will significantly enhance the Army’s operational autonomy, especially in high-altitude and border regions, while also reducing dependence on the Indian Air Force for tactical air support in offensive operations.