Current Affairs - Defence

The contract to build a research vessel was awarded to Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers by DRDO. This partnership aims to enhance India's maritime research capabilities, showcasing the collaborative efforts between defence organizations and shipbuilding companies to strengthen national defence and scientific research initiatives.

The 'Red Flag 24' exercise, in which the Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating, is being held in Alaska, United States. This multi-nation military exercise aims to provide realistic training in a simulated combat environment, enhancing interoperability and readiness among participating forces.

India's successful test of the Rudram-II anti-radiation missile marks a significant leap in Indigenous defence capabilities. Developed by DRDO, Rudram-II is designed to target enemy ground radars and communication stations, enhancing India's suppression of enemy air defences (SEAD) missions. It boasts an internal guidance system for autonomous target acquisition post-launch, affirming its precision and effectiveness in neutralizing various enemy assets.

The AK-203 assault rifles were delivered to the Indian Army from an Indo-Russian joint venture. Despite previous delays attributed to various factors, including the war in Ukraine and payment issues, the delivery marks progress in defence self-reliance and underscores the strong defence partnership between India and Russia.

France marked a significant milestone in its defence capabilities by successfully testing the updated ASMPA supersonic missile. This missile, capable of carrying a nuclear warhead, is a central component of France's nuclear deterrent force, showcasing the country's advancements in military technology.