Current Affairs - Defence

The ₹293 crore contract for the Suryastra Rocket System marks a significant step in strengthening India’s indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem. NIBE Limited, in collaboration with Israel, is responsible for delivering this advanced weapon system to the Indian Army. The Suryastra system is India’s first indigenously manufactured universal multi-calibre rocket launcher, capable of firing multiple rocket types from a single platform. With precision strike ranges of up to 300 km and the ability to deploy loitering munitions up to 100 km, NIBE Limited’s involvement highlights India’s growing emphasis on technological self-reliance and modern military capabilities.

The Indian Army has created a new modern warfare force named Bhairav to strengthen its capabilities in technology-driven battlefields. Bhairav is designed as a drone-centric combat force with over one lakh trained drone operatives, making it one of the largest such units globally. Each soldier is trained in advanced drone operations, enabling real-time surveillance, precision strikes, and battlefield intelligence gathering. The Bhairav battalions are structured to carry out Special Forces–like missions, bridge the operational gap between Para Special Forces and regular infantry units, and enhance India’s readiness for future multi-domain warfare scenarios.

Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor took over as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force, bringing with him extensive operational, command, and administrative experience. A seasoned fighter pilot with over 3,400 flying hours, Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor has flown frontline aircraft such as the MiG-21 and MiG-29 and contributed significantly to the induction of PC-7 Mk II trainer aircraft. An alumnus of NDA, DSSC, and NDC, he has held several key command and staff appointments and has been honoured with prestigious decorations including PVSM, AVSM, VM, and SYSM for distinguished service.

Air Marshal Tejinder Singh took over as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the South Western Air Command, bringing with him extensive operational and leadership experience. Air Marshal Tejinder Singh is a highly seasoned fighter pilot with more than 4,500 flying hours and holds the distinction of being a Category ‘A’ Qualified Flying Instructor. His career spans command of fighter squadrons, radar stations, and major air bases, along with serving as AOC Jammu & Kashmir. An alumnus of NDA, DSSC, and NDC, he has also held key appointments at Air Headquarters, HQ IDS, and earlier led the Training Command.

Air Marshal S. Shrinivas took over as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Air Force Training Command, marking a significant leadership transition in one of the IAF’s most crucial commands. A Category ‘A’ Qualified Flying Instructor, Air Marshal S. Shrinivas brings extensive aviation experience with more than 4,200 flying hours across fighter, trainer, and helicopter platforms. An alumnus of prestigious institutions such as NDA, DSSC, and NDC, he has commanded important training and operational establishments. Prior to this appointment, he served as Senior Air Staff Officer at Headquarters South Western Air Command, strengthening his credentials for this key role.