Current Affairs - Defence

The Philippine government reported collisions between two of its coast guard ships, BRP Bagacay and BRP Cape Engano, and Chinese vessels conducting "unlawful and aggressive manoeuvres" near Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea. The incidents occurred amidst tensions in the region, with both countries claiming rights over the area. The Philippine vessels sustained damage after collisions with Chinese vessels, and both sides accused each other of initiating the collisions. China accused the Philippine ships of illegal entry and ramming, while the Philippine side claimed Chinese vessels initiated the collisions. The incidents highlight the ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea involving multiple countries.

GAURAV is the name of the long-range glide bomb successfully tested by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on August 13, 2024, from a Su-30 MK-I fighter jet of the Indian Air Force. This air-launched 1,000 kg class bomb is designed to hit targets at long distances with high accuracy using a hybrid navigation scheme. The successful test marks a significant achievement in India's efforts to develop indigenous defence technologies, further enhancing the capabilities of the armed forces.

The Mitra Shakti military exercise is an annual bilateral engagement between the Indian Army and the Sri Lankan Army, aimed at enhancing military cooperation and strengthening ties between the two nations. Initiated in 2012, the exercise alternates between India and Sri Lanka, allowing both armies to train together in different operational environments. The 2024 exercise, held at the Sri Lankan Army Training School, continues this tradition, highlighting the strategic partnership between India and Sri Lanka in maintaining regional security.

INS Arighat is the name of India’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), which is nearing its commissioning. Expected to enter service soon, INS Arighat will join INS Arihant, which was the first SSBN inducted into the Indian Navy in 2016. The submarine will enhance India's maritime defence capabilities with its advanced features, including four launch tubes for K-4 and K-15 missiles. The Indian Navy's ongoing efforts to expand its nuclear submarine fleet are part of a broader strategy to strengthen national security and deterrence capabilities.

The "Udara Shakti 2024" bilateral air exercise was hosted by the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) in Kuantan, Malaysia. This exercise marked a significant milestone in strengthening military cooperation between India and Malaysia. The Indian Air Force (IAF) participated with a contingent of seven Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter aircraft, engaging in four days of intensive joint exercises and knowledge exchange. The exercise concluded successfully on August 9, 2024, and the IAF contingent returned to India on August 10, 2024.