Current Affairs - Defence

The launch of the first of two Advanced Frigates on July 23, 2024, took place at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL). This event is a significant milestone in India’s naval capabilities, showcasing the country's progress in indigenous shipbuilding. The ceremony included traditional maritime customs and was attended by notable dignitaries, emphasizing its importance. The frigate, named Triput, symbolizes the strength and precision of the Indian Navy, drawing its name from Indian mythology.

INS Tabar, a frontline frigate of the Indian Navy, arrived in Hamburg, Germany on 17 July 2024 for a three-day visit. During this visit, the ship will engage in various activities including professional exchanges between the Indian and German Navies, tours of the German Naval Academy, and public visits to the ship. The crew will also participate in community service.

INS Delhi was honoured as the Best Ship of the Eastern Fleet at the Fleet Awards Function held in Visakhapatnam on July 14, 2024. The award recognized INS Delhi's exceptional performance and operational excellence throughout the year. As a guided missile frigate of the Delhi class, INS Delhi demonstrated outstanding strategic capabilities and mission success, contributing significantly to the Eastern Fleet's achievements in various naval exercises, missions, and humanitarian efforts in the Indian Ocean Region. The award highlights the ship's pivotal role and operational prowess within the fleet.

Exercise Pitch Black 2024 is being hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) at Base Darwin, Australia. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating in this biennial, multinational exercise, which aims to enhance international military cooperation and air combat capabilities. The 2024 edition marks the largest in the exercise's history, involving participation from 20 countries, over 140 aircraft, and approximately 4,400 military personnel. The focus of the exercise is on Large Force Employment (LFE) warfare to strengthen operational experience and interoperability among the participating air forces, including the IAF.

India is set to host the 28th Malabar naval exercise in October, partnering with the United States, Japan, and Australia. This exercise aims to enhance military coordination and interoperability among the participating nations, focusing on advanced anti-submarine warfare and strategic naval manoeuvres. The exercise underscores India's strategic role in the Indo-Pacific region amidst escalating tensions, particularly concerning China's assertive actions in regional waters.