Current Affairs - Defence

The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel INSV Tarini, part of the Navika Sagar Parikrama II expedition, successfully reached Cape Town, South Africa, completing the fourth leg of its global circumnavigation journey. This all-women Indian Navy expedition, aimed at promoting women empowerment and maritime cooperation, was welcomed by dignitaries including the Indian Consul General and South African Navy officials. Cape Town served as a key stopover for the crew to engage in community outreach, collaborate with the South African Navy, and conduct maintenance activities before continuing their voyage.

The 13-day tri-services exercise ‘Tiger Triumph’ is a joint military drill between India and the United States. The exercise focuses on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations, enhancing coordination between the two nations' armed forces. Key assets like P8I aircraft, MI-17 helicopters, and warships are involved, with a joint command centre based in Kakinada. This exercise, which concludes on April 13, aims to strengthen strategic ties and improve operational readiness in disaster response scenarios.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has been contracted to deliver 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCHs) under a ₹62,700 crore deal. These helicopters include 66 for the Indian Air Force and 90 for the Army. The indigenous LCH Prachand is capable of operating above 5,000 meters and incorporates 65% local components, supporting over 250 MSMEs. This contract reflects India's focus on strengthening its defence capabilities with domestically produced equipment, promoting self-reliance in the defence sector.

The Indian Air Force participated in Exercise INIOCHOS-25, which took place in Greece from March 31 to April 11, 2025. This biennial multinational air exercise involved Su-30 MKI fighters and support aircraft, with the goal of enhancing air force skills, tactical knowledge, and international cooperation among 15 participating countries. The exercise aimed to improve operational capabilities and strengthen strategic defence partnerships, reflecting Greece’s role as the host nation for this important military drill.

The 14th edition of the India-Russia bilateral naval exercise, INDRA 2025, involves the participation of Russia alongside India. This exercise took place from March 28 to April 2, 2025, off the coast of Chennai, focusing on strengthening maritime cooperation between the two nations. It comprises two phases: the Harbour phase, featuring exchanges and sports activities, and the Sea phase, which includes advanced naval drills. Russian naval ships such as Pechanga, Rezkiy, and Aldar Tsydenzhapov joined the exercise, highlighting the strategic naval collaboration between India and Russia.