Current Affairs - Defence

During Operation Sindoor, the Indian Air Force employed several high-precision weapons to ensure accurate targeting with minimal collateral damage. Among these, the SCALP cruise missile, also known as "Storm Shadow," played a crucial role. Developed by the European defence company MBDA, SCALP is designed for deep strikes against fortified and high-value targets. It is typically launched from platforms like the Rafale fighter jet and has a strong combat track record, having been deployed in missions in Iraq, Libya, Syria, and more recently, Ukraine. Its long-range and precision capabilities make it a vital asset for modern air operations.

The Indian Navy is set to acquire the advanced stealth warship INS Tamal from Russia under the framework of a 2016 Indo-Russian deal. As part of this agreement, four frigates were planned—two to be constructed in Russia and two in India. INS Tamal is the second ship built by Russia after INS Tushil. The vessel boasts stealth features, high-speed capability, and is equipped with advanced weaponry, including torpedoes and BrahMos missiles. Its ability to deploy helicopters further enhances its surveillance and combat functionality. The project reflects the longstanding defence partnership between India and Russia, particularly in naval modernization.

INS Sharda participated in a joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise with the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) at Maafilaafushi Atoll in the Maldives. This exercise aligns with India’s "MAHASAGAR" vision to promote security and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region. The engagement is part of India's broader strategic and humanitarian outreach, building on past efforts like Operation Castor following the 2004 tsunami. Strengthening interoperability with the MNDF through such joint initiatives ensures both nations are better prepared to handle regional humanitarian emergencies, further reinforcing India's role as a net security provider in the region.

The BrahMos missile production unit is being established in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, with an investment of ₹300 crore by BrahMos Aerospace. This facility marks a major advancement in India’s defence manufacturing sector, aiming to produce the world’s most powerful supersonic cruise missiles. Inaugurated on May 11, 2025, it is expected to create around 500 direct jobs and thousands of indirect employment opportunities. The plant represents a key strategic and technological milestone, enhancing India’s military capabilities while contributing to the economic and industrial growth of the region. Lucknow is also emerging as a critical node in India’s Defence Corridor initiative.

Dassault Aviation, a French aerospace company, is the developer of the Rafale fighter aircraft. The Rafale is a 4.5-generation multirole combat jet known for its versatility in performing missions such as air superiority, ground attack, reconnaissance, and nuclear deterrence. It features advanced avionics, delta-wing design, canards for agility, and carrier-capable variants. The aircraft is powered by two Snecma M88-2 turbofan engines and is equipped with the Thales RBE2 AESA radar along with sophisticated electronic warfare systems. First introduced in 2001, the Rafale is used by the French military and several export customers around the world.