Current Affairs - Defence

Meghalaya served as the host state for the inaugural multilateral military exercise Pragati, organised by the Indian Army. The exercise was conducted at the Foreign Training Node in Umroi and involved participation from 11 friendly nations. It focused on enhancing interoperability, conducting joint tactical drills, and strengthening regional security cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region. The initiative reflects India’s commitment to fostering defence partnerships and promoting stability in a strategically important maritime zone. Hosting such exercises also boosts the strategic significance of northeastern states in India’s defence and international military collaboration efforts.

Fifth is the position held by India in global military spending as of 2025, reflecting its growing strategic and defense priorities amid evolving geopolitical challenges. The country’s defense expenditure reached $92.1 billion, showing a significant increase from the previous year. This rise highlights India’s focus on modernising its armed forces, enhancing technological capabilities, and strengthening national security. The allocation also includes major investments in advanced equipment such as fighter jets, drones, and warships. Additionally, India’s diversified arms import strategy indicates a shift toward reducing dependency on a single supplier while boosting domestic defence capabilities.

The Advanced Armoured Platforms, including both tracked and wheeled variants, were unveiled on April 25, 2026, at the Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (VRDE) in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra. The unveiling was carried out under the leadership of DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat, highlighting the pivotal role of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in advancing India’s indigenous defence capabilities. These platforms feature modern weapon systems, high-level ballistic protection, amphibious mobility, and significant indigenous content. DRDO continues to play a crucial role as India’s premier defence R&D agency under the Ministry of Defence.

A strategic agreement was signed on April 24, 2026, to establish India’s first dedicated Marine Blasting & Painting Skill Centre in Mumbai. This initiative aims to develop a skilled workforce for shipbuilding, ship repair, and offshore industries. The partnership includes globally recognised certification programs and aligns with the Skill India–NSDC framework, ensuring standardised training. It also introduced a specialised training book to improve competency in marine surface preparation. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, a Miniratna PSU under the Ministry of Defence, plays a key role in strengthening India’s maritime capabilities and industrial skill development.

INS Sudarshini, a sail training ship of the Indian Navy, reached Las Palmas in Spain on April 23, 2026, marking a historic first visit to the Canary Islands by an Indian naval vessel. The voyage is part of the transoceanic deployment mission Lokayan 26, aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation and global presence. The ship began its journey from Kochi and has visited multiple international ports, promoting India’s cultural and diplomatic outreach under the theme Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. It is also scheduled to participate in Sail 250 events in the United States, commemorating 250 years of American independence.