Current Affairs - Defence

The VL-SRSAM, or Vertical Launch Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile, is a defensive weapon system designed to counter close-range aerial threats. India recently successfully tested it off the Odisha coast, demonstrating its capabilities. The test was conducted by DRDO in collaboration with the Indian Navy, and it met all performance expectations. Surface-to-air missiles like the VL-SRSAM play a crucial role in air defence by intercepting and neutralizing incoming aerial targets and enhancing the security of military installations and naval assets.

China announced the "Northern United-2024" joint drills with Russia, focusing on naval and air operations in the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk. The aim of the exercises is to enhance strategic cooperation and improve both countries' capabilities to address security challenges. This marks the fifth joint naval cruise between China and Russia in the Pacific, also involving Russia's “Great Ocean-24” exercise. These drills underscore the growing military partnership between China and Russia amidst increasing global security tensions.

The 20th edition of the Indo-US joint military exercise 'Yudh Abhyas' began at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan. This annual exercise, alternately held in India and the United States since 2004, focuses on enhancing counter-terrorism strategies in semi-desert conditions. Both nations aim to improve their joint operational capabilities under the UN Charter, fostering greater military cooperation and coordination between India and the United States.

Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) signed a Rs 26,000-crore contract with the Ministry of Defence for the production of 240 AL-31FP aero engines for the Su-30MKI aircraft. This contract, part of the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, aims to increase the indigenous content to 63% and enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Air Force's Su-30 fleet. The engines will be produced at HAL's Koraput division.

The Agni-4 Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM), successfully test-fired by India, has a range of 4,000 km. This missile, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is designed to cover significant distances with a payload capacity of 1,000 kg. The successful test launch from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha, on September 6, 2024, confirmed its capability and operational parameters, marking a notable advancement in India's missile technology and enhancing its strategic defence capabilities.