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Defence - General Knowledge Questions
A)
Malaysia
B)
Thailand
C)
Philippines
D)
Indonesia

Correct Answer : Option (D) - Indonesia

Indonesia kicked off the first joint military drills by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) bloc on Batam island on 19 September 2023 amid rising maritime tension with China in the South China Sea region.

The five-day ASEAN Solidarity Exercise-01 Natuna (ASEX-01N) exercise, will be held at Indonesia’s Natuna Islands near the South China Sea. Military personnel from all ASEAN member countries, including East Timor will participate.

The non-combat drills are aimed at cooperation and strengthening strategic partnership among the member countries, Indonesia military chief Yudo Margono told reporters at the opening ceremony.

The drills come amidst rising tension with China after Beijing released a map in August with a “10-dash line” showing what appeared to be an expansion of the area it considers its territory in the South China Sea. Several ASEAN members rejected the map..

Source : AIR

A)
4th
B)
3rd
C)
2nd
D)
1st

Correct Answer : Option (C) - 2nd

The Indian Navy is gearing up for the second(2nd) edition of its Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Seminar, known as 'Swavlamban-2023,' set to take place on 4th October to 5th October 2023.

This seminar follows the resounding success of the inaugural edition held in July 2022.

The first edition of Swavlamban witnessed the honourable Prime Minister launching the 'SPRINT Challenges' initiative.

Under SPRINT, 75 challenges were presented to startups and MSMEs, aimed at fostering the use of indigenous technology within the Indian Navy.

Aim : The Navy is committed to developing a minimum of 75 technologies and products in line with the 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav' celebrations.

SPRINT, which stands for Supporting Pole-Vaulting in R&D through Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), is a collaborative initiative involving the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO), NIIO (Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation), and Technology Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC).

This initiative received an overwhelming response, with 1106 proposals submitted.

After a rigorous evaluation process, 113 winners under the DISC 7 SPRINT category, each receiving grants of up to 1.5 crore, were declared.

Additionally, 5 winners in the DISC7 SPRINT-PRIME category, receiving grants of up to 10 crores, were announced. These winners are actively developing prototypes in collaboration with iDEX and industry partners.

The projects span a wide spectrum of niche technologies, including blue-green lasers for underwater applications, autonomous weaponized swarms, underwater swarm drones, various firefighting aids, and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for diverse applications.

Notably, an ultra-endurance small drone designed for maritime missions is also in development.

Swavlamban-2023, scheduled for October 4-5, 2023, in New Delhi, aims to showcase these 75 prototypes.

The event will feature live demonstrations of select promising technologies, highlighting the Indian Navy's commitment to innovation and indigenization in defence technology..

Source : ToI

A)
Rs 40,000 crore
B)
Rs 45,000 crore
C)
Rs 50,000 crore
D)
Rs 60,000 crore

Correct Answer : Option (B) - Rs 45,000 crore

On September 15, the Government of India took a significant step towards strengthening the country’s defense capabilities by approving a series of proposals. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, gave the green light to nine acquisition proposals, amounting to a total of Rs 45,000 crore.

These proposals encompassed various aspects of defense, from the Indian Air Force’s modernization to improving the Indian Navy’s capabilities and enhancing the overall indigenous content in defense projects.


Enhancing the Indian Air Force :

One of the key decisions made by the DAC was the approval of the procurement of 12 Su-30MKI aircraft for the Indian Air Force. These advanced fighter jets will be manufactured in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a significant step towards bolstering the nation’s indigenous defense production capabilities. The project involves not only the assembly of aircraft but also the development of related ground systems.

Crucially, these Su-30MKIs will need to incorporate more than 60 percent indigenous content, marking a substantial stride in achieving self-reliance in defense production. These aircraft will be equipped with state-of-the-art Indian weapons and sensors, enhancing the Indian Air Force’s operational capabilities.


A Boost for ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ :

The Indian Ministry of Defence emphasized that all these procurements will be sourced from Indian vendors under the Buy Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured (IDDM)/Buy (Indian) category. This move aligns with the goal of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat,’ or self-reliant India, by promoting indigenous defense manufacturing and reducing reliance on foreign imports.


Indian Air Force Upgrades :

In addition to the Su-30MKI procurement, the Indian Air Force is set to receive crucial upgrades. The DAC approved avionic upgrades for Dornier aircraft, enhancing their accuracy and reliability for operations. Furthermore, the Dhruvastra Short Range Air-to-Surface Missile, a potent indigenous precision-guided weapon, will be provided for the indigenously built ALH Mk-IV choppers. These enhancements will significantly improve the Air Force’s capabilities.


Strengthening Mechanized Forces :

The DAC also focused on enhancing the protection, mobility, attack capability, and survivability of mechanized forces. It approved proposals to procure Light Armoured Multipurpose Vehicles (LAMV) and Integrated Surveillance and Targeting System (ISAT-S). Additionally, High Mobility Vehicle (HMV) Gun Towing Vehicles will be acquired to facilitate swift mobilization and deployment of artillery guns and radars. These acquisitions will bolster India’s mechanized forces and increase their readiness.


Next-Generation Survey Vessels for the Indian Navy :

Furthermore, The Indian Navy will receive a substantial upgrade with the approval of the procurement of Next Generation Survey Vessels. These vessels will significantly enhance the Navy’s capabilities in performing hydrographic operations, strengthening its maritime presence and security.

A)
Boeing
B)
Airbus
C)
Dassault Aviation
D)
Lockheed Martin

Correct Answer : Option (B) - Airbus

India on Wednesday (13 September 2023) received the first C-295 MW transport aircraft. Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal VR Choudhari attended the formal handing over ceremony of the first C-295 MW transport aircraft at Seville in Spain.

* According to the Indian Air Force, the aircraft was formally handed over by Airbus to the Indian Air Force (IAF).

* India has formalised the acquisition of 56 Airbus C-295 aircraft to replace the Indian Air Force AVRO fleet. As per the contractual agreement, Airbus will deliver the first 16 aircraft in fly-away condition from its final assembly line at Seville.

* 40 aircraft will be manufactured and assembled by Tata Advanced Systems in India as part of an industrial partnership between the two companies. All the C-295 aircraft will be handed over in transport configuration and equipped with an indigenous Electronic Warfare Suite.

* The acquisition of 56 C295 aircraft will boost the Make in India initiatives. The partnership between Airbus and Tata Advanced System will pave the way for the development of the industrial ecosystem in the aviation sector.

* As the process will involve manufacturing, assembly, testing, qualification, delivery, and maintenance of the complete lifecycle of the aircraft, it will attract huge investment and create several skilled and indirect jobs.

* The C-295 is used for tactical transport of up to 71 troops or 50 paratroopers, and for conducting logistic operations to locations that are not accessible for heavier aircraft...

Source : AIR

A)
Istanbul
B)
Tehran
C)
Jakarta
D)
Mumbai

Correct Answer : Option (A) - Istanbul

19th Heads of Asian Coast Guard Agencies Meeting (HACGAM) was attended by Indian Coast Guard that took place from 05-08 Sep 2023 in Istanbul, Türkiye.

A four-member ICG delegation led by DG Rakesh Pal, Director General Indian Coast Guard took part in the annual event of the independent forum with 23 members of Coast Guard Agencies and 02 associate members in the form of ReCAAP and UNODC.

During the three-day meet, a series of vital issues including maritime law enforcement, safety and security of life at sea, marine environment protection, illicit trafficking of drugs, weapons, and humans at sea etc were discussed.

The forum resolved to further bolster the maritime cooperation among the Asian Coast Guards.

The HACGAM is an annual event hosted by one of its member nations on a rotational basis. In 2022, the 18th edition of the meeting was hosted by the ICG in New Delhi.

The forum comprises four Working Groups to enable a focused and goal-oriented approach towards coordinated response and synergy towards common maritime issues.

Indian Coast Guard is the chair of the Search and Rescue (SAR) Working Group and a proactive member of the other Working Groups which include environmental Protection, Controlling Unlawful Acts at Sea, and Information sharing..

Source : AIR

A)
19th
B)
20th
C)
21st
D)
22nd

Correct Answer : Option (C) - 21st

The Indian and French Navies, steeped in rich maritime traditions and strategic cooperation, recently concluded the Phase II of the 21st edition of the Varuna naval exercise, Varuna-23. Held in the Arabian Sea, this exercise exemplifies the commitment of both nations to enhance their warfighting capabilities, improve interoperability, and promote peace, security, and stability in the region.


Varuna-23: A Joint Endeavor :

The Varuna-23 exercise spanned three days and saw the active participation of guided missile frigates, a tanker, Maritime Patrol Aircraft, and integral helicopters from both the Indian and French Navies. This robust collaboration showcased joint operations, underway replenishment, and various tactical maneuvers designed to sharpen the skills of both navies. It is through exercises like Varuna-23 that these naval forces hone their capabilities to respond effectively to regional and global security challenges.


A Legacy of Cooperation: Varuna’s History :

The roots of the Varuna naval exercise trace back to 1993 when Indian and French naval forces initiated their bilateral engagement. Over the years, this exercise has evolved significantly, earning the moniker ‘Varuna’ in 2001. Today, Varuna stands as a testament to the enduring India-France strategic relationship.

Varuna has grown both in scope and complexity since its inception. It provides a vital platform for both nations to learn from each other’s best practices and procedures. This sharing of knowledge and experience is invaluable, fostering mutual cooperation for good order at sea.


Naval Resource Display in Varuna-23 Exercise :

The Varuna-23 exercise showcases a remarkable assembly of naval resources contributed by both the Indian and French Navies :


Component Indian Navy’s Participation French Navy’s Contribution
Naval Assets Diverse Indian and French naval assets A wide range of Indian and French naval assets
Indian Navy – INS Chennai: Indigenous guided missile stealth destroyer – Charles De Gaulle: Formidable aircraft carrier
Participation – INS Teg: Guided missile frigate – FS Forbin: Distinguished frigate
  – P-8I maritime patrol aircraft – FS Provence: Distinguished frigate
  – Dornier aircraft – FS Marne: Support vessel
  – Integral helicopters – Atlantique: Maritime patrol aircraft
  – MiG29K fighter aircraft  


Varuna-23: A Beacon of India-France Naval Cooperation for Global Maritime Security :


The Varuna-23 bilateral naval exercise serves as a shining example of the deep-rooted and ever-strengthening ties between the Indian and French Navies. As both nations continue to collaborate and engage in such exercises, they not only enhance their own capabilities but also contribute to the collective security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region and the world. Varuna-23 stands as a testament to the commitment of India and France in promoting peace, security, and freedom of navigation in the maritime domain, exemplifying the true spirit of their strategic partnership.

The First phase of the ‘Varuna-2023,’ occurred along the Western Seaboard of India from January 16 to 20, 2023, laying the foundation for this bilateral interaction in the Arabian Sea..


Source : ANI

A)
Chetak
B)
Prakhar
C)
Gaganyaan
D)
Indrajaal

Correct Answer : Option (D) - Indrajaal

In a remarkable feat of innovation and technological prowess, Hyderabad-based private sector firm Grene Robotics has introduced Indrajaal, world’s only autonomous wide area, counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS).

This state-of-the-art system is touted as capable of safeguarding against micro, mini, small, large, and extra-large drones, signaling a significant advancement in Indian defense technology.


Grene Robotics’ Commitment to Showcasing Indrajaal :

Grene Robotics has spared no expense or effort, utilizing its own financial resources and scientific expertise to create live demonstrations of Indrajaal for government officials and tri-services officers. This commitment to self-reliance in defense technology demonstrates the firm’s dedication to bolstering India’s indigenous capabilities.


A Remarkable Unveiling :

* The grand unveiling of Indrajaal took place in the presence of Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh, the governor of Uttarakhand, who hailed the system as a groundbreaking advance in defense technology.
* General Singh emphasized that this innovation would not only enhance the nation’s self-reliant military capabilities but also address the pressing need to defend against the escalating threat posed by drones.


The Test at Grene Robotics’ Facility :
 
The trial for Indrajaal is being conducted at Grene Robotics’ expansive 79-acre test facility located in Hyderabad. This facility serves as the proving ground for a technology that has the potential to reshape the landscape of security for defense, public infrastructure, and private enterprises alike.


Indrajaal’s Innovative Design :

* Indrajaal is built on a foundation of 12 unique layers of technology, a feat powered by artificial intelligence, marking a world-first achievement.
* This cutting-edge system possesses the ability to detect, identify, classify, track, and swiftly neutralize threats in real time.
* Its coverage extends to 360 degrees, offering protection over areas spanning up to 4000 square kilometers against all categories and levels of unmanned autonomous threats.


Indrajaal’s Versatility in Defense :

Indrajaal is currently demonstrating its prowess in safeguarding against a wide array of aerial threats, including low radar cross-section (RCS) threats, medium altitude long endurance (MALE) and high-altitude long endurance (HALE) UAVs, loitering munitions, smart bombs, rocket showers, nano and micro drones, swarm drones, and other contemporary threats.

A)
Goa Shipyard Limited
B)
ABG Shipyard Limited
C)
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders
D)
Cochin Shipyard Limited

Correct Answer : Option (C) - Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders

India’s latest warship, Mahendragiri, will be launched at the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, Mumbai, on 1st September 2023, marking a major step in the country's defence indigenisation programme, the defence ministry said.

Mahendragiri, named after a mountain peak in Eastern Ghats located in the state of Odisha, is the seventh ship of the Project 17A Frigates. These warships are follow-ons of the Project 17 Class Frigates (Shivalik Class), with improved stealth features, advanced weapons and sensors and platform management systems.

"The newly christened Mahendragiri is a technologically advanced warship and stands as a symbol of India's determination to embrace its rich naval heritage, while propelling itself towards a future of indigenous defence capabilities," the ministry said.

Under the Project 17A program, a total of four ships by M/s MDL and three ships by M/s GRSE are under construction. The first six ships of the project have been launched so far by MDL & GRSE, between 2019-2023.

According to the ministry, Project 17A ships have been designed in-house by Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau, the pioneer organisation for all warship design activities.

Aligning with the country's resolute commitment to 'Aatma Nirbharata', a substantial 75% of the orders for equipment and systems of Project 17A ships have been ordered on indigenous firms, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

“The launch of Mahendragiri is an apt testament to the incredible progress our nation has made in building a self-reliant naval force," it added..

Source : Mint

A)
130
B)
150
C)
175
D)
210

Correct Answer : Option (A) - 130

* In continuation with its steps to strengthen intelligence and surveillance systems along the LAC, the Indian Army on Monday signed a contract with local manufacturers for the supply of tethered drone systems and tank driving simulators.

* The Indian Army in a message confirmed the signing of a contract for the procurement of 130 tethered drones and 19 tank-driving simulators. “The induction of the new equipment will enhance the overall operational preparedness of the Army,” said the force.

* Contract for the drone system for long-distance surveillance and intelligence gathering along the borders was signed with indigenous company New space Research Technologies Pvt Ltd. The contract for the other equipment was signed with Zen Technologies Limited, which will also involve skill development.

* The Request for Technical and Commercial Proposals for the drones was issued by the armoured branch of the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence in January this year, under the fast-track procedure.

* As per the RFI, these systems are sought to fly not less than six hours in tethered mode and around 45 minutes in un-tethered mode.

* These drones are connected to a ground-based tethered system with a flexible wire or cable for power and communications and can provide surveillance of beyond-line-of-sight targets for a prolonged period.


Significance :


* Tethered drone systems are ideal for extended surveillance and security overwatch missions such as border control. Traditional drones have a greater range allowing them to perform missions the sensor cannot capture from a distance.


Advantages :

* Tethered UAVs are perfect for data capture and telemetry due to the reliability of tethered connections.
* They dramatically reduce technical and human error crashes in flight.
* They provide a secure line of communication between the ground station and the aircraft.
* It also does not require GPS navigation.
* Many tethered drones have longer flight times compared to free-flying, battery-operated drones.
* Due to the restricted movement of a tethered drone, the operator does not need piloting skills and can mainly focus on their tasks..

Source : The Hindu

A)
Sudan
B)
Egypt
C)
Israel
D)
Morocco

Correct Answer : Option (B) - Egypt

An Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent departed 27 August 2023, for participating in ExerciseBRIGHT STAR-23 a biennial multilateral tri-service exercise scheduled to be held at Cairo (West) Air Base, Egypt from 27 August to 16 September 2023.

This is for the first time that IAF is participating in Ex BRIGHT STAR-23 which will also see participation of contingents from the United States of America, Saudi Arabia, Greece and Qatar.

The Indian Air Force contingent will consist of five MiG-29, two IL-78, two C-130 and two C-17 aircraft. Personnel from the IAF's Garud Special Forces, as well as those from the Numbers 28, 77, 78 and 81 Squadrons will be participating in the exercise.

The IAF transport aircraft will also provide airlift to approximately 150 personnel from the Indian Army.

Objective of the exercise : To practice planning and execution of joint operations. Besides leading to the formation of bonding across borders, such interactions also provide a means to further strategic relations between participating nations. IAF contingents to flying exercises abroad are thus no less than Diplomats in Flight Suits.

India and Egypt have had exceptional relationship and deep cooperation wherein the two jointly undertook development of aero-engine and aircraft in 1960s and training of Egyptian pilots was done by Indian counterparts.

The relationship between the two civilizational countries was further strengthened with the recent visits by Chief of Air Forces of the two countries and Indian Defence Minister and Prime Minister to Egypt. The two countries have also enhanced their joint training with regular exercises between their Armed Forces..

Source : PIB