Current Affairs - Defence

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is establishing a test centre for weapon systems in Junput village, West Bengal. This initiative aims to alleviate the testing workload at Odisha's Chandipur Integrated Test Range (ITR) and enhance operational capabilities.

India's defence exports surged by 32.5% in FY 2023-24, reaching a record Rs 21,083 crore. This significant growth is attributed to policy reforms, digital solutions, and global acceptance of Indian defence products, marking a milestone achievement for the sector.

The Indian Coast Guard vessel "Samudra Paheredar" visited Vietnam as part of its ASEAN Mission, focusing on maritime cooperation, pollution control, and professional engagements with the Vietnam Coast Guard. This visit highlights strategic partnerships in maritime security and enforcement activities.

Maldives hosted the 'Dosti-16' trilateral exercise, showcasing collaboration and interoperability among the coast guards of India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka to address shared maritime security concerns. The exercise aimed to enhance cooperation, strengthen friendship, improve mutual operational capability, and develop interoperability among the participating nations' Coast Guard personnel.

Mumbai is transforming India's first tri-service common defence station, aimed at achieving jointness among the Army, Navy, and Air Force by consolidating their facilities and resources under unified leadership.