Current Affairs - Defence

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed the user evaluation trials of the Next Generation Akash missile system, also known as Akash-NG. These trials demonstrated the missile’s ability to intercept aerial targets at varying ranges and altitudes, highlighting its effectiveness in modern air defence scenarios. Designed to counter multiple aerial threats, the Akash-NG system incorporates advanced technologies such as an indigenous Radio Frequency seeker for improved target accuracy. Powered by a solid rocket motor, the missile reflects India’s growing capabilities in developing advanced, self-reliant defence systems.

The Indian Navy commissioned Anjadip as part of its efforts to strengthen coastal defence and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. It is the third vessel in a series of eight ASW Shallow Water Craft and was commissioned at Chennai. Built indigenously by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers in collaboration with L&T Shipyard, the 77-metre-long warship is the Navy’s largest waterjet-powered vessel. Equipped with advanced systems such as lightweight torpedoes, ASW rockets, and shallow-water sonar, Anjadip enhances India’s ability to conduct anti-submarine operations, coastal surveillance, and mine-laying missions in littoral waters.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by DRDO to strengthen collaboration in defence and internal security through research, education, training, and technological support. The agreement focuses on joint research and development projects, PhD and fellowship programmes, capacity building initiatives, and technology lifecycle support for security forces. Signed in New Delhi in the presence of the Defence Minister, the MoU highlights DRDO’s role in integrating advanced defence technologies with academic and training institutions. This partnership aims to enhance innovation, skill development, and indigenous technological capabilities for India’s defence and homeland security ecosystem.

Exercise Desert Cyclone is a bilateral military exercise conducted between the Indian Army and the land forces of the UAE. It is organised on a reciprocal basis to enhance defence cooperation, operational coordination, and interoperability between the two countries. The first edition of the exercise took place in Rajasthan, India, in 2024, while the current edition is being held in the UAE. Such joint drills highlight the deepening strategic partnership between India and the UAE and focus on joint training, combat readiness, and shared regional security objectives.

The initiative to accelerate the development and induction of indigenous drone systems for the Indian Army was coordinated through the 515 Army Base Workshop located in Secunderabad. This effort aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision by promoting self-reliance in defence technology and reducing dependence on imports. The Memorandum of Understanding focuses on advancing IC engine-based drones and enhancing operational capability in GPS-denied environments. By streamlining the process from evaluation to induction, the partnership supports quicker deployment of unmanned systems, strengthening the Army’s land-based operational readiness and technological capabilities.