Current Affairs - Defence

‘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.

INS Nistar is India’s first indigenously designed and built Diving Support Vessel (DSV), commissioned by the Indian Navy at Visakhapatnam. Constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited, the vessel significantly enhances India’s underwater capabilities, including saturation diving and submarine rescue features possessed by only a few navies worldwide. With advanced systems like Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and a Self-Propelled Hyperbaric Life Boat, INS Nistar is built for operations up to 300 metres deep. It supports the Indian Navy’s strategic objective of maritime self-reliance and aligns with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, positioning India as a key submarine rescue partner in the region.

The successful test-firing of the nuclear-capable Prithvi-II and Agni-I ballistic missiles took place at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha, on July 17, 2025. These tests were carried out under the Strategic Forces Command to validate India’s operational and technical readiness of its strategic missile systems. Odisha, home to critical defence infrastructure like the Chandipur testing range, plays a pivotal role in India’s missile development and deployment efforts. By conducting these tests in Odisha, India, not only demonstrated the reliability of its homegrown missile technology but also reinforced its strategic deterrence posture and rapid-response capabilities amid evolving regional security dynamics.