Current Affairs - Defence

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.

India recently unveiled the 'Zorawar' light tank, developed in collaboration with DRDO and Larsen & Toubro. Named after General Zorawar Singh, the tank is designed for high-altitude operations and features advanced weaponry and protection systems. It marks a significant advancement in India's defence capabilities, particularly aimed at enhancing military presence in challenging terrains like Ladakh, Sikkim, or Kashmir, following strategic requirements highlighted during recent geopolitical tensions.

INS Shivalik, described as an indigenous guided missile stealth frigate, took part in Exercise RIMPAC-24 at Pearl Harbour. RIMPAC is recognized as the world's largest international maritime warfare exercise, organized by the US Navy's Indo-Pacific Command and involving approximately 29 countries. This participation underscores India's naval engagement in multilateral exercises aimed at enhancing interoperability and maritime security cooperation with other nations across the Indo-Pacific region.

India's defence production in fiscal year 2023-24 reached a record high of Rs 1,26,887 crore, marking a growth rate of 16.7% compared to the previous fiscal year. This substantial increase underscores India's advancing capabilities and commitment to bolstering domestic manufacturing in the defence sector, reflecting a significant milestone towards achieving self-reliance.