Current Affairs - Defence

The Indian Navy and the Italian Navy conducted a historic joint exercise off the coast of Goa, marking their first-ever collaboration with Carrier Strike Groups (CSG). The exercise, held from October 1 to 6, 2024, involved prominent vessels including INS Vikramaditya and ITS Cavour, along with INS Visakhapatnam and ITS Alpino. This bilateral exercise aimed to enhance naval cooperation and interoperability between the two nations, demonstrating their commitment to maritime security and regional stability. The choice of Goa as the exercise location highlights its strategic importance in India's naval operations.

INS Nirdeshak is the second of four Survey Vessel (Large) ships commissioned by the Indian Navy for deep water hydrographic mapping. It was built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, and designed per the Indian Register of Shipping classification rules for high safety and performance standards. The ship measures 110 meters long, has a displacement of approximately 3,400 tons, and is equipped with advanced hydrographic equipment, including autonomous underwater vehicles and remotely operated vehicles. Its primary role is to conduct coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys, and it can also participate in low-intensity combat and function as a hospital ship.

INS Talwar arrived in Simon's Town, South Africa, to participate in the IBSAMAR VIII naval exercise, a trilateral collaboration between the navies of India, Brazil, and South Africa. These exercises are aimed at improving interoperability and strengthening the cohesion between the participating navies. INS Talwar, commissioned in 2003, is part of the Indian Navy’s Western Fleet, stationed in Mumbai under the Western Naval Command. The ship's captain during this exercise was Jithu George.

Air Marshal SP Dharkar has been appointed as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, bringing with him a wealth of experience as a distinguished fighter pilot with over 3,600 hours of flying time. His extensive background in aviation and leadership roles within the Indian Air Force is anticipated to enhance the operational readiness and strategic capabilities of the Air Force. He succeeds Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, who has taken on the role of Chief of Air Staff. Air Marshal Dharkar's experience includes commanding a MiG-27 squadron and flying various fighter jets and trainer aircraft.

DRDO conducted three successful flight tests of the 4th Generation VSHORADS (Very Short Range Air Defence System) on October 3-4, 2024, at the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. These tests demonstrated the missile’s critical performance parameters, including its range, altitude, and hit-to-kill capability. The VSHORADS was developed indigenously, supporting India's 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, which focuses on self-reliance in defence technology.