Current Affairs - Defence

The eighth Ammunition Cum Torpedo Cum Missile (ACTCM) Barge, LSAM 22, was inducted at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on January 6, 2025. This event highlights the Indian Navy's efforts to enhance its operational capabilities. The barge was built by Suryadipta Projects Pvt. Ltd., an MSME shipyard contributing to the Make in India initiative. The induction of LSAM 22 reflects the Navy’s commitment to modernizing its fleet while supporting local shipbuilding industries and bolstering India's defence manufacturing sector.

Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) launched the Fast Patrol Vessels Amulya and Akshay, the third and fourth in a series of eight vessels built for the Indian Coast Guard. These 52-meter-long vessels, constructed with 60% indigenous content, are designed for fisheries protection, anti-piracy operations, search and rescue missions, and coastal patrols. The project, worth ₹473 crores, underscores India's push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing and the critical role of GSL in enhancing maritime security through indigenous shipbuilding.

Air Commodore Debakinandan Sahu took charge of the Base Repair Depot at Tughlakabad on January 6, 2025. Known for his expertise in aviation and missile systems, he is an alumnus of prestigious institutions such as AFTC, DSSC, and the College of Air Warfare. Awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal in 2023 for his distinguished service, he has held several key engineering and staff positions within the Indian Air Force, showcasing his leadership and technical acumen in advancing the operational readiness of the force.

Air Vice Marshal Manmeet Singh assumed the position of Senior Officer-in-Charge of Administration at the Western Air Command on 1st January 2025. An alumnus of the National Defence College and Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Wellington, he holds advanced degrees in Defence Studies and Financial Management. With extensive experience in operational units and Air Headquarters, his appointment strengthens administrative and operational oversight within the command.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was founded in 1958 and celebrated its 67th Foundation Day on January 2, 2025. Over the decades, DRDO has grown significantly, expanding from 10 laboratories to a network of 52 laboratories and 5 DRDO Young Scientist Laboratories (DYSLs). It has contributed to India's self-reliance in defence technologies with innovations like the Agni and Prithvi missile series, the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, and the Arjun Main Battle Tank, among others.