Current Affairs - Defence

Exercise 'Aakraman' was conducted by the Indian Air Force to simulate attacks on both mountainous and ground targets, showcasing the IAF’s enhanced operational capabilities. The drills prominently featured advanced fighter jets like the Rafale and Su-30MKI, demonstrating their effectiveness in ground attack operations and electronic warfare. With rising regional tensions, the exercise emphasized readiness to respond to threats, leveraging cutting-edge technologies like Meteor and Rampage missiles, along with the powerful S-400 air defence system. 'Aakraman' focused on live fire drills, electronic warfare, and complex mission scenarios to test the IAF’s preparedness in modern aerial combat environments.

The deal for the acquisition of 26 Rafale-Marine (Rafale-M) fighter jets between India and France is set to be finalized on April 28, 2025. The deal is valued at ₹63,000 crore and represents a significant boost to India’s naval aviation capabilities. The Rafale-M jets, which will be deployed on India’s aircraft carriers, reflect the strengthening of the strategic partnership between India and France. The jets will bridge operational gaps until the indigenous Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) project is completed, further enhancing India's maritime strike capabilities.

The 10th Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile (ACTCM) Barge, LSAM 24, was officially inducted into the Indian Navy at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. These barges play a crucial role in transporting ammunition, torpedoes, and missiles to various naval platforms. Designed by M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt Ltd from Thane, the barge represents an effort to strengthen Indigenous defence manufacturing and enhance logistics capability. The delivery of LSAM 24 continues a series of successful inductions, with additional contracts aimed at encouraging Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the defence sector.

The Indian Air Force’s Surya Kiran aerobatic team conducted a spectacular air show in Patna as part of the Valour Day Vijayotsav, paying tribute to Babu Kunwar Singh, a revered figure of the 1857 freedom movement. The event celebrated his bravery and legacy in Bhojpur, Bihar. Such commemorative events not only honour historical heroes but also serve to inspire patriotism and showcase the capabilities of India's armed forces. Bihar, being the birthplace and battlefield of Kunwar Singh’s revolutionary acts, was the fitting venue for this grand tribute.

INS Sunayna visited Port Nacala in Mozambique as part of the IOS Sagar Mission, which is a maritime security initiative led by India in the Southwest Indian Ocean Region. The mission includes participation from nine countries: Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and South Africa. The objective is to enhance regional maritime cooperation, conduct port calls, and strengthen ties among Indian Ocean littoral states. The port call to Mozambique emphasizes its strategic importance and reflects India’s commitment to collaborative maritime security efforts in the region.