Current Affairs - Defence

India and Greece successfully conducted their first ever bilateral naval exercise in the Mediterranean Sea, marking an important step in strengthening defence ties. The exercise, held from 13–18 September 2025, was carried out in two phases—harbour and sea. The harbour phase at Salamis Naval Base included cross deck visits, professional exchanges, and cultural interactions, while the sea phase featured advanced operations such as anti submarine drills, coordinated gun firing, and cross deck helicopter missions. With INS Trikand and HS Themistokles participating, the exercise enhanced interoperability, reinforced maritime cooperation, and highlighted the shared commitment of India and Greece to maritime security and global stability.

India has established its first defence manufacturing plant in Africa at Berrechid, Morocco, through Tata Advanced Systems Maroc. This facility focuses on producing Wheeled Armoured Platforms and represents a milestone under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which seeks to make India self reliant in defence production. The inauguration coincided with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s official visit, marking the first ever visit by an Indian Defence Minister to Morocco. This development enhances bilateral defence cooperation, strengthens India’s strategic outreach in Africa, and positions India as a global defence exporter. It also opens opportunities for joint projects, training, and industrial partnerships.

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.