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Defence - General Knowledge Questions
A)
HAL
B)
ISRO
C)
DRDO
D)
Bharat Dynamics

Correct Answer : Option (C) - DRDO

Imagine a weapon that can neutralize drone attacks, deflect ballistic missiles, and even destroy fighter jets at the speed of light. This is the promise of India’s ambitious “DURGA-2” project, a directed-energy weapon (DEW) being developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO).

Current anti-aircraft and anti-missile systems have limitations. “DURGA-2” aims to overcome these limitations by offering a 100% kill probability, potentially revolutionizing the military landscape. This has sparked excitement in Indian strategic circles, envisioning the system effectively countering threats from China and Pakistan.

The project holds immense significance considering the vulnerability of Indian cities to ballistic missile attacks. While the S-400 system offers some protection, it doesn’t guarantee complete defense. “DURGA-2” aspires to fill this gap by destroying missiles and even crippling enemy radar and electronic warfare systems, rendering their missile infrastructure ineffective.


The Laser Science and Technology Centre (LSTC) in New Delhi is spearheading the project, developing various laser generation techniques for both defensive and offensive purposes. The project, funded with $100 million, aims to integrate the laser system with land, sea, and air platforms.

Initial successes include a 25KW laser capable of targeting missiles at a distance of 5 km, with efforts underway to extend this range significantly. However, providing adequate power for high-power lasers remains a significant challenge.

While “DURGA-2” holds immense potential, its development requires overcoming technical hurdles and navigating international regulations surrounding DEWs. Nevertheless, the project represents a significant step forward in India’s defense capabilities, potentially ushering in a new era of laser-based warfare..

Source : Defence

A)
Visakhapatnam
B)
Chennai
C)
Cuttack
D)
Mumbai

Correct Answer : Option (A) - Visakhapatnam

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has called upon the international community to collectively aspire for peace in this age of democratic and rules-based world order, where individual countries proactively collaborate for shared peace & prosperity. He was addressing the formal opening ceremony of the 12th edition of the multi-nation Exercise MILAN in Visakhapatnam on February 21, 2024. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar and a distinguished gathering of Ministers, Ambassadors, Chiefs of Navies and representatives of Maritime Forces from over 50 friendly countries were present on the occasion.

Sharing his insights on the concept of ‘peace’, the Raksha Mantri asserted that the absence of wars and conflicts is the most irreducible minimum element of peace. He spoke of “negative peace” which, he said, often stems from dominance or hegemony, where one power imposes its will upon others. He said such peace, not backed by fairness and justice, is what physicists and economists call “unstable equilibrium”.

Shri Rajnath Singh elaborated on what he called “cold peace” where parties do not kill each other in the open, but do their best to undermine one another. He described cold peace as merely an interval between direct conflicts.

The Raksha Mantri was of the view that the concept of positive peace goes beyond the mere absence of direct military conflict and encompasses broader notions of security, justice, and cooperation. “The positive peace is the shared peace of one and all, with the cooperation of one and all. There is no Indian peace or Australian peace or Japanese peace, rather it is the shared global peace. This sentiment was also eloquently set forth by our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi when he said ‘This is not an era of war. But it is one of dialogue and diplomacy’,” he said.


Shri Rajnath Singh emphasised that the Armed Forces play a dual role - conduct wars as well as maintain peace and good order. “Historically, Navies and Armies were established and maintained with the primary objective of extending political power through military conquests. Our historical experience informs us that the Armed Forces also play a significant role in preserving peace. It is seen in concepts and practices such as deterrence, conflict prevention, peace-keeping, and also in various humanitarian assistance efforts especially during disasters,” he said.

The Raksha Mantri stressed that in this evolution of the nature of the Armed Forces, international military exercises have emerged as crucial mechanisms for fostering friendship, understanding, cooperation, and military interoperability among friendly nations within the framework of a democratic world order. He termed MILAN 2024 as one such attempt to build the much-needed fraternal bonds across the oceans and mountains.

While Shri Rajnath Singh batted for peace and shared goodness, he assured that “we will not shrink from countering any threat that undermines our collective well-being, piracy and trafficking included”. He referred to the recent events in the Western Indian Ocean which have brought to the fore some pressing challenges in the maritime domain, ranging from attacks on the merchant shipping to piracy and hijacking attempts..

Source : PIB

A)
India
B)
Nepal
C)
Pakistan
D)
Bangladesh

Correct Answer : Option (B) - Nepal

Multinational military exercise - 'Shanti Prayas IV' - kicked off in Kathmandu, Nepal  on Tuesday (20th Feb 2024) at the Army headquarters here with the participation of 19 countries, including India, Bangladesh and Pakistan to enhance the interoperability and peacekeeping skills of the forces.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal “Prachanda” inaugurated the two-week-long military drill amidst a special ceremony, according to a press release issued by the Nepal Army Headquarters.

The multinational military exercise is taking place at the Birendra Peace Operation Training Centre in the Kabhre district, 50 km east of Kathmandu. It will see the participation of 1,125 army personnel from 19 countries, including India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

The exercise has been organised with the assistance of the Global Peace Operation Initiative of the US government and with the joint efforts of the Nepal Army and the US Army, the release said.

The US delegation to the joint military exercise is led by Deputy Assistant Secretary Rachel Schiller.

During the inaugural event at the playground of Nepal Army headquarters, participating countries displayed their respective flags, fly passes and bands.

Nepal hosted the inaugural multi-platoon training event 'Shanti Prayas' in 2000. Since then, three successful multi-platoon exercises have taken place in the Himalayan country, with the participation of military forces from various countries.

According to the centre, the objective of the exercise, which will run till March 4, is to increase interoperability and peacekeeping skills at various levels before deployment to the UN missions and operational level staff training (STE).

The key events of the exercise are the tactical level field training event (FTE) and critical enabler and capability enhancement (2CE)..

Source : Deccan Herald

A)
Rs 68,000 Crore
B)
Rs 63,000 Crore
C)
Rs 59,000 Crore
D)
Rs 57,000 Crore

Correct Answer : Option (D) - Rs 57,000 Crore

The Indian Army is embarking on a significant endeavor to modernize its armored forces by replacing its aging Russian T-72 tank fleet with cutting-edge Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs).

These FRCVs, totaling 1,770 units, will be produced indigenously in India with advanced technologies including artificial intelligence (AI), drone integration, active protection systems, and enhanced situational awareness. The induction will occur in three phases, each incorporating newer technologies for maximum survivability and lethality.

Replacement of T-72 Tanks with Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs) :

* Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Rs 57,000 crore project to produce 1,770 FRCVs.
* Incorporation of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, drone integration, active protection systems, and enhanced situational awareness.
* Manned-unmanned teaming capability and seamless integration into network-centric warfare environments.
* Phased induction with each phase integrating newer technologies for maximum survivability, lethality, and agility.

Induction of Indigenous Tanks and Light Tanks for High-Altitude Warfare

* Induction of 118 indigenous Arjun Mark-1A tanks equipped with upgrades to firepower, mobility, endurance, and protection.
* Deployment of 354 indigenous light tanks under Project Zorawar for superior performance in mountainous terrain.
* Complementing existing tank capabilities, especially in regions like eastern Ladakh.

Upgrades to Existing Tank Fleets

* Installation of 1000-horsepower engines in T-72 tanks for improved mobility.
* Integration of advanced thermal sights, fire detection systems, and other enhancements to enhance operational capabilities.

A)
Indore
B)
Srinagar
C)
Jaisalmer
D)
Pathankot

Correct Answer : Option (C) - Jaisalmer

The Indian Air Force (IAF) will conduct Exercise Vayu Shakti-24, where it will demonstrate its offensive and defensive capabilities spanning across day and night.

The exercise will take place on 17 February 2024 at the Pokhran Air to Ground Range, near Jaisalmer, an official statement said here on Friday (2nd Feb 2024).

This year, 121 aircrafts, including the indigenous Tejas, Prachand and Dhruv will participate in the exercise. Moreover, Rafale, Mirage-2000, Sukhoi-30 MKI, Jaguar, Hawk, C-130J, Chinook, Apache and Mi-17 will also be part of the exercise.

Indigenous Surface to Air Weapon systems Akash and Samar will demonstrate their capability to track and shoot down an intruding aircraft.

Exercise Vayu Shakti will be a demonstration of the IAF's capability to deliver weapons with long range, precision capability as well as conventional weapon accurately, on time and with devastating effect, while operating from multiple air bases.

Special operations by the IAF transport and helicopter fleets, involving the Gaurds and Indian Army elements will also be on display.

The last edition of exercise Vayu Shakti was held on 16 February 2019.

The exercise will also showcase joint operations with the Indian Army, the statement added..

Source : UNI India

A)
Preeti Rajak
B)
Manisha Keer
C)
Mehuli Ghosh
D)
Ganemat Sekhon

Correct Answer : Option (A) - Preeti Rajak

Havildar Preeti Rajak, a distinguished trap shooter in the Indian Army, has reached a historic milestone by being promoted to the esteemed rank of Subedar. Her promotion marks a groundbreaking achievement, as she becomes the first woman in the Indian Army to hold this prestigious rank, signifying not only her personal accomplishment but also a significant advancement for women in the armed forces.

A Testament to Nari Shakti :

The Indian Army, in a statement lauded Rajak’s promotion as an extraordinary display of Nari Shakti, recognizing her exceptional talent, dedication, and contribution to the field of sports and military service. Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring female athletes and soldiers across the nation, showcasing the immense potential and capabilities of women in traditionally male-dominated domains.

A Remarkable Journey Begins :

Rajak embarked on her journey with the Corps of Military Police in December 2022, earning her place through her outstanding performance in trap shooting. She made history as the first meritorious sportswoman in the shooting discipline to be enrolled in the army as a havildar, laying the foundation for her trailblazing career.


Triumph on the International Stage :

Rajak’s prowess as a trap shooter shone brightly on the international stage at the 19th Asian Games 2022 held in Hangzhou, China, where she clinched the silver medal in the trap women team event. Her stellar performance not only brought glory to the nation but also earned her recognition as a formidable athlete on the global platform.

Recognition and Reward :

In recognition of her extraordinary achievements, Rajak was awarded the first out-of-turn promotion to the rank of Subedar. The pipping ceremony, presided over by Lieutenant General Gajendra Joshi, commandant of the Infantry School, served as a momentous occasion to celebrate Rajak’s exemplary performance and dedication to her craft.

Aiming for Excellence :

Currently ranked 6th in India in the trap women event, Rajak continues to hone her skills and sharpen her aim at the elite Army Marksmanship Unit in Mhow. With her sights set on the Paris Olympics, she remains steadfast in her pursuit of excellence, embodying the spirit of determination, resilience, and unwavering commitment to her country and her sport.

A)
Qatar
B)
Saudi Arabia
C)
Oman
D)
Bahrain

Correct Answer : Option (B) - Saudi Arabia

The inaugural edition of India-Saudi Arabia Joint Military Exercise ‘SADA TANSEEQ’ commenced today at Mahajan, Rajasthan. The Exercise is scheduled to be conducted from 29th January to 10th February 2024.

The Saudi Arabian contingent comprising 45 personnel is being represented by Royal Saudi Land Forces. The Indian Army contingent also comprising 45 personnel is being represented by a Battalion from the Brigade of the Guards (Mechanised Infantry).

Aim of the Exercise is to train troops of both sides for Joint Operations in Semi Desert terrain under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The Exercise will enable both the sides to share their best practices in the tactics, techniques and procedures of conducting operations in sub-conventional domain. It will facilitate developing interoperability, bonhomie and camaraderie between troops from both the sides.

The Exercise will involve Establishment of Mobile Vehicle Check Post, Cordon & Search Operation, House Intervention Drill, Reflex Shooting, Slithering and Sniper Firing. The Exercise will provide an opportunity to both the contingents to strengthen their bond. It will act as a platform to achieve shared security objectives, enhance the level of defence cooperation and foster bilateral relations between the two friendly nations..

Source : PIB

A)
France
B)
Thailand
C)
Japan
D)
Vietnam

Correct Answer : Option (B) - Thailand

The maiden Bilateral Maritime Exercise between the Indian Navy (IN) and Royal Thai Navy (RTN) was conducted from 20 to 23 December 2023.

Indigenously built Indian Naval ships Kulish and IN LCU 56 participated in the inaugural edition of the exercise. The RTN side was represented by His Thai Majesty's Ship (HTMS) Prachuap Khiri Khan.

The 36th edition of India-Thailand Coordinated Patrol (Indo-Thai CORPAT) was also conducted along with the maiden bilateral exercise. Maritime Patrol Aircraft from both navies participated in the Sea Phase of the exercise.

With the institution of a Bilateral Exercise, both navies have taken a step towards strengthening operational synergy and progressively increasing the exercise complexity. During the maiden edition of the exercise, participating units from both navies conducted surface and anti-air exercises including weapon firing, seamanship evolutions and tactical manoeuvres.

As part of Government of India's vision of SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in the Region), the Indian Navy has been proactively engaging with countries in the Indian Ocean Region towards enhancing regional maritime security. The Indian Navy and Royal Thai Navy have maintained a close and friendly relationship which has strengthened over the years. The conduct of maiden IN-RTN Bilateral Exercise along with Indo-Thai CORPAT is a testimony to the growing bilateral relations between the two maritime neighbours and has enabled in enhancing interoperability between the two navies.

The Indo-Thai Bilateral Exercise is being named as ‘Ex-Ayutthaya’, which literally translates to ‘The Invincible One’ or ‘Undefeatable’, and symbolises the significance of two of the oldest cities Ayodhya in India and Ayutthaya in Thailand, the historic legacies, rich cultural ties and shared historical narratives dating back to several centuries..

Source : PIB

A)
INS Vela
B)
INS Karanj
C)
INS Khanderi
D)
INS Cheetah

Correct Answer : Option (D) - INS Cheetah

Indian Navy Ships Cheetah, Guldar and Kumbhir were decommissioned on 12 Jan 2024 after rendering four decades of glorious service to the nation. The decommissioning event was conducted at Port Blair in a traditional ceremony wherein the National Flag, the Naval Ensign and Decommissioning Pennants of the three ships were lowered for the last time, at sunset.

 Cheetah, Guldar and Kumbhir were built at Gdynia Shipyard, Poland as Polnocny class Landing Ships and were commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1984, 1985 and 1986 respectively, in presence of Shri S K Arora (Cheetah and Guldar) and Shri A K Das (Kumbhir) then Ambassadors of India to Poland. The Commanding Officers of the three ships were Cdr V B Mishra, Lt Cdr SK Singh and Lt Cdr J Banerjee respectively. During her initial years, Cheetah was based at Kochi and Chennai for brief periods, and Kumbhir and Guldar were based at Visakhapatnam.

The ships were subsequently re-based at Andaman and Nicobar Command, where they served till their decommissioning. These ships were in active Naval service for nearly 40 years, and collectively traversed about 17 lakh nautical miles whilst being at sea for over 12,300 days. As the amphibian platforms of the Andaman and Nicobar Command, these ships have conducted over 1300 beaching operations for landing of army troops ashore.


During their illustrious journeys, these ships participated in numerous maritime security missions and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations. Notable amongst them are their role during Operation Aman as part of IPKF operations and Operation Tasha a joint operation carried out between Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard in May 1990 to control smuggling of arms and ammunition and illegal immigration across Indian and Srilankan border and made stellar contributions in relief operations post 1997 cyclone off Sri Lanka and the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami.

Indian Naval Ships Cheetah, Guldar and Kumbhir have left an indelible mark on the maritime landscape and their decommissioning marks the end of a significant chapter of the Indian Navy’s history.

Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, AVSM, VM, Commander-in-Chief Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, AVSM, VSM, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, Flag Officers, former Commanding Officers and commissioning crew of the three ships attended the ceremonies at Port Blair. The event was also unique since three warships of the same class were decommissioned simultaneously on a single day..


Source : PIB

A)
air to air
B)
air from the surface
C)
air to surface
D)
surface to surface

Correct Answer : Option (B) - air from the surface

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has conducted a successful flight test of the New Generation AKASH (AKASH-NG) missile from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur off the coast of Odisha at 10.30 am today (12th Jan 2024).

The flight test was conducted against a high-speed unmanned aerial target at a very low altitude. During the flight test, the target was successfully intercepted by the weapon system and destroyed.

This testing was done on high speed unmanned air targets at very low altitude. Akash is a new generation 'Surface-to-Air' missile defense system.

The system performance was also validated through the data captured by several Radars, Telemetry, and Electro-Optical Tracking System deployed by ITR, Chandipur.

The flight test was witnessed by senior officials from DRDO, Indian Air Force (IAF), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). The AKASH-NG system is a state-of-the-art missile system capable of intercepting high-speed, agile aerial threats.

The successful flight test has paved the way for user trials. The AKASH-NG system is a state-of-the-art missile system capable of intercepting high-speed, agile aerial threats..

Source : Mint