Current Affairs - Defence

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has partnered with the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT), Pune, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance research, skill development, and technological innovation in the aerospace sector. This collaboration aims to bridge the gap between industry and academia, offering opportunities for higher education, research, and training in emerging aerospace technologies. HAL’s involvement will strengthen India’s aerospace and defence capabilities, contributing to self-reliance and global competitiveness in the sector.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) conducted the ‘Sagar Kavach’ coastal security exercise along West Bengal's coastline on February 21-22, 2025. The exercise was aimed at enhancing coastal security by simulating real-life security threats, such as hijackings, smuggling, and IED threats. The operation involved multiple agencies, including the Navy, BSF, CISF, and local police, working in coordination to refine Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and improve inter-agency collaboration. This comprehensive drill focused on strengthening India's preparedness against potential maritime threats.

Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) is showcasing its indigenously developed Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) and Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) at NAVDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi. The vessels represent India's growing maritime capabilities under the "Make in India" initiative. NAVDEX provides GSL with a platform to highlight these advanced naval innovations and increase its presence in the global defence market. The exhibition is a significant event for showcasing India's defence manufacturing progress and enhancing international collaboration.

SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd was the company responsible for the projection and launch of the 8th Missile Cum Ammunition Barge, LSAM 11, in Mira Bhayandar, Maharashtra. The company, based in Visakhapatnam, signed the contract for these barges in February 2021 and worked in collaboration with an Indian ship design firm and the Indian Register of Shipping to design and build the barges.

India is finalizing a $200 million deal with the Philippines for the acquisition of its Akash surface-to-air missile system. This deal is part of India’s growing defence exports, showcasing the advanced technology of the Akash missile system. The system’s capabilities, including targeting various threats and its mobility, make it an attractive defence option for countries like the Philippines, which is enhancing its military strength amid tensions in the South China Sea. This acquisition underscores the growing defence collaboration between India and the Philippines.