Current Affairs - Defence

Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) signed a Rs 26,000-crore contract with the Ministry of Defence for the production of 240 AL-31FP aero engines for the Su-30MKI aircraft. This contract, part of the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, aims to increase the indigenous content to 63% and enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Air Force's Su-30 fleet. The engines will be produced at HAL's Koraput division.

The Agni-4 Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM), successfully test-fired by India, has a range of 4,000 km. This missile, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is designed to cover significant distances with a payload capacity of 1,000 kg. The successful test launch from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha, on September 6, 2024, confirmed its capability and operational parameters, marking a notable advancement in India's missile technology and enhancing its strategic defence capabilities.

India and South Africa have strengthened their naval cooperation by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) focused on enhancing submarine rescue operations. This agreement enables the deployment of India's Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) for rescue missions, ensuring the safety of the South African Navy's submarine crew. The DSRV, operational since 2018, has the capability to dive up to 650 meters and rescue 14 people, showcasing India's expertise in submarine rescue operations and its commitment to international cooperation.

The first Joint Commander's Conference of the Indian Armed Forces was held in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, on September 4-5, 2024. This two-day event, presided over by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, brought together India's top military leadership, including the Chief of Defence Staff and the heads of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The conference focused on the theme "Sashakt aur Surakshit Bharat" (Strong and Secure India), emphasizing the government's commitment to transforming and modernizing India's defence forces.

The second phase of 'Exercise Tarang Shakti 24' was conducted at Air Force Station Jodhpur. This international exercise saw participation from multiple nations, including Australia, which contributed to three EA-18G Growler aircraft and 120 personnel. Running from August 30 to September 13, the exercise aimed to enhance regional security cooperation and involved other nations such as Greece, Sri Lanka, the UAE, Japan, Singapore, and the US, underscoring the strategic importance of Jodhpur as a key location for military collaborations.