Current Affairs - Defence

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.

The Indian Army conducted the ‘Parvat Prahaar’ exercise in Ladakh, a region of strategic importance due to its proximity to the India-China border. This exercise focused on high-altitude warfare, simulating combat scenarios in rugged mountainous terrains. Involving various military units and advanced equipment, the drill aimed to enhance the Army's readiness and effectiveness in this sensitive area, especially in light of ongoing tensions with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera assumed charge as the new Director General of the Assam Rifles, taking over from Lt General P C Nair, who retired after a distinguished career. The Assam Rifles, known as the "Sentinels of the Northeast," play a crucial role in maintaining peace and security in India's northeastern region. Lt Gen Lakhera brings with him a wealth of experience and a strong foundation in the Indian Armed Forces, having been commissioned into the 4 Sikh Light Infantry in 1990.