Current Affairs - Defence

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is a state-run aerospace and defence manufacturer in India. It is the largest aerospace company in India and produces a wide range of aircraft, helicopters, engines, and other aerospace components. HAL delivered the first trainer version of the LCA Tejas to the Indian Air Force in 2023. The Tejas trainer is a twin-seater aircraft that will be used to train IAF pilots on the Tejas fighter aircraft. It can also serve as a fighter aircraft when needed.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has announced plans to retire its iconic MiG-21 fighter jets and replace them with the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark 1A. This is part of the IAF's ongoing efforts to modernize and replace its ageing Russian-origin aircraft.

Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari has announced that the Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to procure a range of weapon systems, including aircraft, helicopters, and missiles, with an estimated cost ranging from Rs 2.5 lakh crore to Rs 3 lakh crore over the next six to seven years. This move aligns with the government’s push for self-reliance in defence production.

Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti has taken charge as the Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff in the Indian Navy, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his distinguished career spanning over 35 years.

The first C-295 medium tactical transport aircraft that was introduced into the IAF's inventory was manufactured by Airbus.