Current Affairs - Defence

The 18th edition of Exercise SURYA KIRAN, a joint military exercise between India and Nepal, took place in Saljhandi, Nepal. The exercise involved 334 personnel from the Indian Army, led by the 11th Gorkha Rifles, and the Nepal Army's Srijung Battalion. It emphasized key areas such as jungle warfare, counter-terrorism, disaster relief, and enhancing operational preparedness, strengthening military collaboration between the two nations.

INS Sarvekshak conducted a joint hydrographic survey in Mauritius, arriving at Port Louis to foster technical exchanges and training. This survey is aimed at assisting Mauritius with maritime infrastructure, resource management, and coastal planning. The visit highlights India's SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision and strengthens the maritime cooperation between India and Mauritius, promoting closer ties and collaboration in regional security and development.

India and Kuwait have elevated their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership, focusing on cooperation in sectors like pharmaceuticals, IT, FinTech, infrastructure, and security. This milestone was achieved during the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. The agreements signify a strengthened bond between the two nations, emphasizing their mutual commitment to enhance economic and security collaborations.

The Vietnam Coast Guard Ship CSB 8005 visited Kochi to participate in the "Sahyog — Hop Tac" exercises aimed at enhancing maritime cooperation between India and Vietnam. These exercises focus on improving interoperability, strengthening bilateral relations, and addressing regional maritime challenges such as security threats and environmental concerns, fostering mutual trust and collaboration.

The 2024 edition of the Sri Lanka-India Naval Exercise (SLINEX) will take place in Visakhapatnam from December 17 to 20. This annual exercise started in 2005, aims to strengthen maritime cooperation and enhance interoperability between the navies of India and Sri Lanka. Hosted by the Eastern Naval Command, SLINEX 2024 will feature a Harbour Phase and a Sea Phase, focusing on promoting regional maritime security and bolstering bilateral ties. The event underscores the strategic importance of Visakhapatnam as a hub for naval collaboration and defence operations.