Current Affairs - Defence

The Indian Army, in collaboration with IIT Madras, launched 'Agnishodh', a dedicated research cell named the Indian Army Research Cell (IARC), as part of its broader transformation initiative. Situated on the IIT Madras campus, this initiative aligns with the Army’s Five Pillars of Transformation strategy, specifically focusing on Modernisation and Technology Infusion. The goal of Agnishodh is to translate academic and laboratory research into practical, deployable defence technologies. This is achieved through synergistic efforts involving the IIT Madras Research Park and the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Development Centre (AMTDC), highlighting a strong civil-military partnership for innovation.

Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan has assumed charge as the 47th Vice Chief of the Naval Staff. He is a distinguished officer with expertise in Gunnery and Missile Systems and has commanded significant naval assets, including the Eastern Fleet. His leadership was particularly notable during critical operational periods. In addition to sea commands, he has served in key tri-service capacities, such as Deputy Commandant at the National Defence Academy and Deputy Chief of the Integrated Defence Staff. His contributions were recognised with the award of Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2021, reflecting his dedication and strategic impact in the Indian Navy.

India received the final Airbus C-295MW military transport aircraft from Spain, marking the completion of the first batch of 16 aircraft under the 2021 agreement with Airbus Defence & Space. The delivery took place at the assembly line in Seville, Spain, and was completed ahead of schedule. This delivery is part of a larger contract for 56 aircraft, with the remaining 40 to be manufactured in India by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL). The collaboration signifies a strategic defence partnership between India and Spain while also supporting India's 'Make in India' initiative and strengthening indigenous aerospace capabilities.

Vice Admiral CR Praveen Nair has taken over as the Controller Personnel Services of the Indian Navy. He brings a wealth of experience, particularly in Communications and Electronic Warfare, and has commanded key naval assets such as INS Vikramaditya. He played a leading role in Operation Sankalp and contributed to the drafting of strategic policy documents like MCPP and MIPP. His distinguished service has been recognised with prestigious awards such as the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) and Nau Sena Medal (NM). He has also served as the Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy, reinforcing his deep involvement in naval leadership and training.

INS Satpura, an Indian Navy frigate, participated in the 32nd edition of the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX-25), showcasing the operational coordination between India and Singapore in the Indo-Pacific. The exercise included both Harbour and Sea phases, involving professional exchanges, complex naval drills, and joint operations such as cross-deck helicopter missions and air defence exercises. INS Satpura was part of a larger Indian fleet visiting Southeast Asia, underlining India's Vision MAHASAGAR and Act East Policy. The continued participation in SIMBEX, which began in 1994, reinforces India's commitment to maritime cooperation and regional security in partnership with the Republic of Singapore Navy.