Defence - General Knowledge Questions

Correct Answer :   India and Singapore

India and Singapore on Wednesday (1st Nov 2023) decided to further boost interaction between their armed forces as well as cooperation in military technologies and industries. The two countries have also inked an implementing agreement on submarine rescue support between their navies.

The pact will involve India helping Singapore if one of its submarines gets disabled underwater.

"India is fortunate to have a defence partner like Singapore. The interaction will benefit both countries on many bilateral issues that are being pursued to further strengthen our special relationship," said Rajnath Singh, after holding the fifth defence ministerial dialogue with his counterpart Ng Eng Hen through video-conferencing.

The submarine rescue cooperation pact will involve India helping Singapore if one of its submarines gets disabled underwater. Apart from other capabilities, the Indian Navy in 2018 had inducted two deep submergence rescue vessels (DSRVs), which are capable of rescuing trapped sailors from a disabled submarine up to a depth of 650 meters.

The two ministers, while expressing satisfaction at the progress of ongoing bilateral defence cooperation despite limitations imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic, discussed new areas of potential cooperation and articulated their vision in this direction, said officials.

Under bilateral pacts inked over a decade ago, Singapore already uses Indian military facilities for training of its mechanized forces at Babina, artillery at the Deolali ranges and F-16 fighter jets at the Kalaikunda airbase on a regular basis. Singapore may also use the integrated test range for firing of missiles at Chandipur in Odisha in the future.

Apart from regular naval exercises, India has also inked a naval pact with Singapore to access each other’s bases and reciprocal logistics support for warships, as part of the overall policy to steadily build military ties with Asean countries with an eye firmly on China.

India has often joined the other countries in the region to reiterate the need for all to respect freedom of navigation and trade in international waters in the backdrop of China’s aggressive and expansionist behavior in the Asia Pacific region.

A joint statement issued on Wednesday said, "Both ministers were committed to further enhance bilateral defence ties between India and Singapore, and supported multilateral initiatives to promote lasting peace and stability in the region."

Rajnath Singh, on his part, reaffirmed "Asean centrality" in the regional security architecture and pledged India’s support to all endeavours of the Asean defence ministers’ meeting ADMM-Plus..

Source : Times of India

Correct Answer :   Sidhartha Babu

Siddharth Babu won gold medal in 50 meter rifles SH-1 event in Asian Para Games.

Indian Para athletes created history by winning the most medals in the Asian Para Games on 26 October 2023, taking the country's medal tally to 82, including 18 gold.

India had earlier won 72 medals in the 2018 Asian Para Games.

Correct Answer :   India and Malaysia

Joint bilateral training exercise “Exercise Harimau Shakti 2023”, between Indian & Malaysian Army commenced 23rd Oct 2023 in Umroi Cantonment, India.

The Malaysian Army contingent comprises troops from 5th Royal Battalion of Malaysian Army. The Indian contingent is being represented by a Battalion of THE RAJPUT REGIMENT. Last edition of the Exercise was conducted in Pulai, Kluang, Malaysia in November 2022.

Ex Harimau Shakti, scheduled till 5th November 2023, will engage approximately 120 personnel from both sides. It is aimed at enhancing military capability for conduct of Multi Domain Operations in a sub conventional scenario.

During the exercise, both contingents will establish a Joint Command Post & establish an integrated surveillance grid along with a Joint Surveillance Centre.

 

Both sides will rehearse employment of joint forces in jungle/ semi urban / urban environment. In addition, intelligence collection, collation and dissemination drills will also be rehearsed.

The Exercise will also witness employment of Drones/UAVs & Helicopters. Two sides will also practice casualty management and evacuation drills. Both the contingents will discuss logistics management and practice survival training at the Battalion level.

The training will focus primarily on high degree of physical fitness, conduct of drills at tactical level and sharing of best practices with each other. The Exercise will culminate with a 48-hour long validation exercise in a semi-urban area.

“Exercise HARIMAU SHAKTI” is aimed to enhance the level of defence co-operation between Indian Army and the Malaysian Army, which will also foster the bilateral relations between the two nations..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   Indian Army

The Indian Army won a gold medal at the Cambrian Patrol Exercise 2023 held in the UK while competing against 96 teams representing special forces and regiments from around the world.

The 4/5 Gorkha Rifles (Frontier Force) represented the Indian Army at the drill held at Brecon, Wales, during 13 October - 15 October 2023.

The event is considered the ultimate test of human endurance and team spirit and is considered the “Olympics of military patrolling”. The Indian Army team performed well in harsh terrain and inclement weather. These conditions added to the challenges of simulated situations to assess the reaction of the teams in a combat setting.

The Indian Army team was lauded on its navigation skills, delivery of patrol orders and overall endurance for completing the patrol, said a statement from the Indian high commission in London.

This year (2023), only three international patrols out of the 96 participating teams were awarded a gold medal.

The award ceremony was attended by Gen Mark Carleton-Smith, the chief of general staff of the British Army, who presented the gold medal to the Indian Army team. Brig Vikramjit Singh Gill, military advisor at the Indian high commission, also attended the event.

The Indian high commissioner, Gaitri Issar Kumar, felicitated the Indian Army team at India House..

Source : Hindustan Times

Correct Answer :   Cochin Shipyard Limited

The Ministry of Defence signed a contract on October 16, 2023, in New Delhi for Mid Life Upgrade and Re-Powering of "INS Beas" with Kochi-based M/S Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) at an overall cost of Rs. 313.42 Cr.

INS Beas is the first of Brahmaputra Class Frigate to be re-powered from Steam to Diesel Propulsion. After completion of Mid Life Upgrade and Re- Powering in 2026, INS Beas will join the active fleet of the Indian Navy with a modernized weapon suite and upgraded combat capability.

The transformative maiden re-powering project marks a significant stride in the maintenance philosophy of the Indian Navy and repair capabilities of M/s CSL. The project would involve more than 50 MSMEs and would lead to generation of employment for more than 3500 personnel.

The project will be a proud flag bearer of Atmanirbhar Bharat in consonance with the Make-in-India initiative of the Government of India..

Source : PIB

Correct Answer :   HAL

The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, HAL handed over the twin seater variant of LCA Tejas fighter aircraft to Indian Air Force in the presence of Union Minister of state for Tourism and Defence Ajay Bhat in Bengaluru on 4th October 2023.

LCA Tejas twin seater is a light weight all weather, multi-role 4.5 generation aircraft.

The aircraft developed indigenously has static stability, qudraplex fly by wire flight control, carefree manoeuvring, advanced glass cockpit, integrated digital avionics systems and advanced composite mateirals for the airframe.

The induction of the aircraft into Indian Airforce, marks an important milestone when India joins the list of a very few elite countries who have created such capability and have them operational in their defence forces.

Speaking on the occasion, MoS Defence Ajay Bhat said that it is an historic occasion 4th Oct 2023 when the moto of Atma Nirbhar Bharat is realised by the development off twin seater Tejas with advanced features. He said it is an important achievement that showcases indigenous capabilities.
         
Air Force Chief Vivek Ram Chaudhari and HAL MD C B Ananthakrishnan also attended the programme. Later Air Force Chief Vivek Ram Choudhary said, that the induction of Tejas fighter Aircraft into the Air Force has created a new chapter in history also it has increased its performace and power.

He said that talks have already held for the handover of 83 Light Combat Aircraft in to Air Force and the intention is to have a force of 220 Light Combat Aircraft in the coming days.
         
In the Progragramme a special documentary film showing the production and speciality of Tejas was screened..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   India and Bangladesh

India and Bangladesh commenced the 11th edition of annual joint military exercise, SAMPRITI on 03rd October 2023 in Umroi, Meghalaya. The exercise underscores the importance of enhancing interoperability between the two armies, sharing tactical drills, and promoting best practices.

SAMPRITI-XI, scheduled for 14 days, will engage approximately 350 personnel from both sides. Centered on the conduct of Sub-Conventional Operations as per Chapter VII of the UN mandate, SAMPRITI-XI will include a Command Post Exercise (CPX) and a Field Training Exercise (FTX), culminating in a Validation Exercise.

Sampriti Exercise is a bilateral defence cooperation exercise between the armies of India and Bangladesh. It is seen as a part of Indo-Bangladesh defence cooperation.

This exercise, alternatingly organised by both countries, signifies strong bilateral defence cooperation initiatives. With its inception in Jorhat, Assam in 2009, the exercise has witnessed ten successful editions till 2022.

20 Officers from each contingent will participate in the CPX, focusing on decision-making after thorough deliberations. This will be followed by FTX wherein grassroots-level operations will be validated.

The FTX will include a series of joint tactical drills for counter-terrorist operations such as hostage rescue, crowd control measures, and use of helicopters in counter-terrorist operations. T

The Validation Exercise will be conducted on 14th and 15th October 2023 in Darranga Field Firing Range, Assam. During the course of the exercise, the participants will also get to witness the prowess of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ Equipment Display.

SAMPRITI-XI promises to further enhance defence cooperation between India and Bangladesh, fostering deeper bilateral relations, cultural understanding, and mutual benefits from shared experiences in Sub Conventional Operations..

Source : AIR

Correct Answer :   Astra BVR

The Indian Air Force made significant strides to enhance its air defense capabilities with the impending induction of indigenous Astra Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Air-to-Air Missiles by end of 2023.

The IAF has entered into contracts with Bharat Dynamics Limited for these advanced missiles, marking a crucial step towards reducing import dependency and bolstering national security.

The first batch of Astra-MK1 missiles, developed by the Defence Research and Development Laboratory..

Source : WIO News

Correct Answer :   Do-228

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has recently celebrated the arrival of the first of six state-of-the-art Dornier Do-228 aircraft, exclusively manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This upgraded version of the aircraft is set to bolster the IAF’s operational capabilities with its advanced features, marking a significant milestone in the modernization efforts of the Indian defense forces.


A Strategic Deal for Modernization :

The foundation for this crucial development was laid in March when the Ministry of Defence inked a deal with HAL for the procurement of six Dornier-228 aircraft, allocating a budget of Rs 667 crore. This deal represents a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to modernize and upgrade the Indian Air Force’s fleet.


Legacy and Advancements of the Dornier-228 Aircraft in the IAF :

The Dornier-228 aircraft has a rich history within the IAF, having been employed for Route Transport Role and communication tasks. These versatile aircraft have also played a pivotal role in training transport pilots, contributing to the overall proficiency of the Air Force. However, the introduction of this new batch of six aircraft heralds a new era of capabilities and efficiency.

These upgraded Dornier-228 aircraft come equipped with a range of advanced features that set them apart. The inclusion of new engines, composite propellers, advanced avionics, and a modern glass cockpit significantly enhances their performance and usability.

Versatility at its Best :

One of the standout characteristics of the Dornier-228 aircraft is its versatility. Designed to fulfill various needs, from utility and commuter transport to maritime surveillance, these aircraft are true multipurpose assets. Their ability to operate from semi-prepared or short runways makes them particularly valuable, especially in the challenging terrains of the northeastern and island regions of India.


Strengthening Operational Capability :

The addition of these six Dornier-228 aircraft to the IAF’s fleet is poised to make a substantial impact on the Air Force’s operational capability, particularly in remote and challenging areas. With enhanced fuel-efficient engines and five-bladed composite propellers, they are well-suited for short-haul operations, providing crucial support where it is needed the most.


A Symbol of Regional Unity: India’s Gift to Sri Lanka :

In a demonstration of strong regional partnership and camaraderie, the Indian Navy has taken a significant step by presenting its Dornier Do-228 maritime patrol aircraft to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF). This gesture underscores the enduring cooperation between India and Sri Lanka and highlights the importance of unity among neighboring nations in the pursuit of shared security and prosperity.

The transfer of this maritime patrol aircraft to the SLAF not only enhances Sri Lanka’s maritime surveillance capabilities but also strengthens the bonds of friendship and collaboration between the two nations. It serves as a shining example of how regional cooperation can play a pivotal role in maintaining stability and security in the Indian Ocean region.

Correct Answer :   Defence Acquisition Council

The Defence Acquisition Council approved procurement including the indigenous Dhruvastra short-range air-to-surface missile.


About the Dhruvastra Missile :

* It is a helicopter-launched Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) system.

* It is a short-range air-to-surface missile.

* It was indigenously developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation.

* It is a third-generation, renowned for its versatility in engaging and neutralizing enemy tanks and armored vehicles..

Source : The Hindu