Current Affairs - Defence

Air Marshal Sanjiv Ghuratia, AVSM, VSM, has taken charge as the Air Officer-in-Charge Maintenance (AOM) at the Indian Air Force Headquarters. With a distinguished service career spanning 37 years, he is recognised for his deep technical expertise and leadership in aviation logistics and maintenance. Commissioned in 1988 in the Aeronautical Engineering branch, he has pursued higher studies at institutions such as BITS Pilani, Madras University, and Bhopal University. He has also served on the UN mission in Congo and received commendations for his contributions. Decorated with the Vishisht Seva Medal and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, his appointment underscores the IAF’s focus on technical excellence and operational readiness.

The Indian Army is raising five new commando battalions named "Bhairav" to significantly boost its strike capabilities. Each battalion will consist of 250 soldiers selected from existing infantry units. These specialised units are being deployed with the objective of strengthening India’s response along sensitive borders with China and Pakistan while also relieving the Para-Special Forces from certain operational pressures. The Bhairav battalions will be equipped with cutting-edge technology, including drones, surveillance systems, and tactical gadgets. They are planned to be strategically stationed across the Northern Command, the western desert region, and the eastern hilly terrain to ensure rapid and effective responses.

The Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) successfully carried out the high-altitude exercise Achook Prahar in Arunachal Pradesh. This exercise was conducted under simulated combat conditions to test interoperability, layered defence systems, and rapid response mechanisms in the eastern sector. It highlighted the preparedness of the armed forces to respond to potential challenges in difficult terrains. The exercise also follows earlier integrated drills such as Prachand Prahar and Poorvi Prahar conducted in the same region, reinforcing India’s strategic focus and operational readiness along its eastern borders.

MILMEDICON 2025, an international conference on military medicine, was inaugurated by Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth on 28 August 2025 at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi. Organised by the Directorate General of Medical Services (Army), the event focused on advanced trauma care, AI in military medicine, and the centenary of the Military Nursing Service. The conference served as a global platform, attracting participation from more than 15 countries, where experts discussed innovations in battlefield medicine, women’s evolving role in combat healthcare, and emergency medical strategies. Hosting the event in New Delhi highlighted India’s commitment to advancing military healthcare and fostering international collaboration.

India will be sending over 700 troops to Egypt for ‘Exercise Bright Star 2025,’ one of the largest multilateral military exercises in the Middle East and North Africa. Initially launched in 1980 as a bilateral drill between Egypt and the United States, Bright Star has since grown into a major tri-service exercise involving multiple nations. India’s participation, with personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, will focus on integrated drills, live firing, cyber warfare modules, and command post exercises. This deployment enhances India’s defence diplomacy, boosts interoperability with global partners, and underscores its commitment to regional peace and stability.