Current Affairs - Defence

The Indian Navy launched the seventh Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), named 'Abhay,' on October 25 at L&T, Kattupalli. 'Abhay' is built by GRSE as part of an eight-ship contract with the Ministry of Defense (MoD) to replace the Abhay-class ASW corvettes. Notably, over 80% of the materials used in its construction are indigenous, supporting the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and promoting self-reliance in defense shipbuilding. This development enhances local production and employment opportunities in the defence sector.

The maiden Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) between India and Germany involved the Indian Navy's INS Delhi and Germany’s frigate Baden-Württemberg, along with the tanker Frankfurt Am Main. This exercise in the Indian Ocean included complex operations such as cross-deck flying, underway replenishment, and weapon firing. MPX signifies an important step in strengthening naval interoperability and maritime relations between India and Germany, underscoring a shared commitment to regional security and defence collaboration.

The 31st edition of SIMBEX, a bilateral maritime exercise between India and Singapore, commenced on October 23, 2024, in Visakhapatnam. This exercise aims to fortify maritime ties and enhance strategic partnership between the two nations through advanced naval drills, anti-submarine warfare, and tactical operations. The exercise consists of two phases: the Harbour Phase and the Sea Phase, taking place in the Bay of Bengal. SIMBEX demonstrates India's commitment to strengthening regional maritime cooperation and securing vital sea lanes. Visakhapatnam's strategic location makes it an ideal host for this significant naval exercise.

The Indian Army is hosting the 2nd Chanakya Defence Dialogue in New Delhi on October 24-25, 2024. The event's theme, "Drivers in Nation Building: Fuelling Growth Through Comprehensive Security," underscores the role of security in national development. High-profile speakers, including Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh and General Upendra Dwivedi, will lead discussions on topics like geopolitics, economic growth, social cohesion, sustainability, and technological advancement. This dialogue provides a platform for examining security’s multifaceted impact on India’s growth and resilience.

Visakhapatnam, a strategic port city on India's eastern coast, hosted the launch of the country's fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), S4*. This significant development enhances India's naval capabilities and contributes to its nuclear deterrence. The S4* boasts advanced features, including the K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile with a 3,500 km range. The Indian Navy's expanding submarine fleet, including INS Arihant and INS Arighaat, strengthens India's maritime presence and underscores its commitment to national security. Visakhapatnam's Ship Building Centre plays a vital role in India's naval modernization efforts.