Main Point :-   (i) The Igla-S man-portable air defence systems were assembled in India by Adani Defence Systems and Technologies Limited (ADSTL), based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

      (ii) Igla-S is an upgraded version of the older Igla missiles, which have been part of India's defence since the 1990s.

(iii) This enhanced version provides greater resistance to countermeasures and improved seeker accuracy, with the capability to engage targets up to 6 km away and at altitudes of up to 3.5 km.

Main Point :-   (i) The ALH Dhruv is a 5.5-tonne, twin-engine, multi-role helicopter developed indigenously by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Over 340 units have been produced so far and are actively deployed across both military and civilian sectors in India.

      (ii) The earlier grounding of the fleet had a significant impact on military readiness, notably affecting the Sarang Helicopter Display Team of the IAF, which missed Aero India 2025.

(iii) The resumption of operations comes after limited flying was restarted in Anantnag, Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) following the Pahalgam terror attack.

Main Point :-   (i) A dedicated team of 20 military personnel was selected based on physical fitness, mental toughness, and team coordination.

      (ii) The team undertook 18 days of intense trekking (excluding 10 days of acclimatization), traversing challenging terrains with steep gradients, unpredictable weather, and rugged mountain trails.

(iii) The expedition route witnessed dramatic altitude transitions, ranging from sub-tropical forests to regions over 14,000 feet, pushing the soldiers to operate effectively in low-oxygen, high-stress environments, thereby testing their physical endurance and psychological resilience.

      - The DUSTLIK-VI exercise focuses on Joint Multi-Domain Sub-Conventional Operations in semi-urban environments, simulating a range of counter-terrorism missions. These include territory capture, setting up a Joint Operations Centre at the battalion level, implementing population control measures, conducting raids, executing search-and-destroy operations, and ensuring coordinated deployment of air assets to enhance operational synergy.

Main Point :-   (i) The participating contingents in DUSTLIK-VI include 60 personnel from a battalion of the Indian Army's JAT Regiment along with Garud Commandos from the Indian Air Force (IAF), while the Uzbekistan contingent comprises personnel from the Uzbekistan Army.

      (ii) The key focus areas of DUSTLIK-VI include intensive counter-terrorism drills simulating scenarios like territory capture by terrorists, population control, raids, and search-and-destroy missions. A Joint Operations Centre (JOC) is established at the battalion level to facilitate coordinated planning and execution of operations between the participating forces.

(iii) Additionally, the exercise emphasizes the integration of air force capabilities such as Special Heliborne Operations (SHBO), Small Team Insertion and Extraction (STIE), reconnaissance, and logistics using helicopters. Advanced technology deployment also plays a crucial role, with the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) measures to enhance operational efficiency.

Main Point :-   (i) The expedition involves a 55-day sea voyage, covering around 4,000 nautical miles from Mumbai to Seychelles and back, aboard the Indian Armed Services Vessel (IASV) Triveni. The mission is set to culminate with a Flag-In Ceremony in Mumbai on 30th May 2025.

      (ii) The sailing team comprises a 12-member all-women crew, selected from 41 volunteers representing the Indian Army (IA), Indian Navy (IN), and Indian Air Force (IAF). These officers have undergone two years of extensive ocean sailing training.

(iii) Launched by the Ministry of Defence (MoD), this initiative aims to highlight the resilience, bravery, and leadership of women in the armed forces, while inspiring broader female participation in both maritime and defence sectors.

      - The advanced EW Suite has been indigenously designed and developed by DRDO’s Combat Aircraft System Development and Integration Centre (CASDIC), Bengaluru, and will be manufactured by BEL, enhancing India’s self-reliance in defence technologies.The advanced EW Suite has been indigenously designed and developed by DRDO’s Combat Aircraft System Development and Integration Centre (CASDIC), Bengaluru, and will be manufactured by BEL, enhancing India’s self-reliance in defence technologies.

Main Point :-   (i) This integrated system will significantly improve the combat survivability of Mi-17 V5 helicopters by enabling them to operate in hostile environments with better protection against threats.

      (ii) The project will also foster increased participation from Indian electronics and associated industries, especially encouraging contributions from Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

(iii) The Mi-17 V5 is a Russian-origin, multi-role military transport helicopter inducted into the IAF in 2012. It can carry personnel and cargo, has a maximum speed of 250 km/h, and a payload capacity of up to 4,000 kg, making it a crucial component of IAF’s medium-lift fleet.

      - HAL will manufacture the helicopters at its facilities in Bengaluru and Tumkur, Karnataka. As India’s largest aerospace firm, HAL now maintains an order book exceeding ₹2 lakh crore, which also includes 83 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)—10 of which are trainer variants—and 12 Su-30MKI fighter jets.

Main Point :-   (i) The Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), named Prachand, is the only attack helicopter in the world capable of taking off and landing at altitudes up to 5,000 meters (16,400 feet).i. The Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), named Prachand, is the only attack helicopter in the world capable of taking off and landing at altitudes up to 5,000 meters (16,400 feet).

      (ii) This remarkable high-altitude capability makes it ideal for operations in extreme terrains such as the Siachen Glacier and Eastern Ladakh.

(iii) The Prachand is equipped to launch a wide range of air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles, allowing it to neutralize enemy air defense systems and conduct precision strike operations effectively.

Main Point :-   (i) The OSA-AK (9K33) missile system, also known by its NATO designation SA-8 Gecko, is a low-altitude, short-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system developed by the Soviet Union and inducted in 1972. It features a length of 9.14 meters, width of 2.75 meters, weight of 17.5 tonnes, and can engage targets up to a maximum range of 12 kilometers, making it highly effective for short-range aerial defense.

      (ii) Accommodates 5 crew members, equipped with NBC (Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical) protection, and uses TELAR (Transporter-Erector-Launcher and Radar) configuration for independent threat detection and engagement.

(iii) It is fully amphibious, air-transportable, and operational across varied terrains, with a road range of 500 km.

      - This capability enhances operational effectiveness by enabling quicker response cycles and improved situational awareness.

Main Point :-   (i) MUM-T significantly contributes to future-ready force structuring by delivering faster decision loops, accurate threat responses, and increased battlefield agility.

      (ii) In March 2025, the IA’s Fleur-De-Lis Brigade, in partnership with the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) in Chandigarh, Punjab, successfully tested a First Person View (FPV) drone equipped with a kamikaze-style anti-tank munition in Pathankot, Punjab.

(iii) The drone is intended for precision attacks on armoured targets.

Main Point :-   (i) The IAF has proposed that the Airports Authority of India (AAI) acquire adjacent land for the construction of a civil terminal, aircraft parking apron, and associated infrastructure.

      (ii) The AAI is likely required to submit a detailed proposal to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the IAF for the civil development plans.

(iii) In February 2025, the GoI had granted approval for the development and operationalization of the Mamnoor Airport in Warangal, Telangana.

Main Point :-   (i) The exercise began with the deployment of advanced surveillance assets from all three branches of the armed forces, including aircraft from the Indian Air Force (IAF), maritime aircraft from the Indian Navy (IN), helicopters, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), space-based resources from the Indian Army (IA), and Special Forces.

      (ii) The targets were swiftly neutralized using coordinated firepower from fighter jets, rocket systems, artillery, armed helicopters, swarm drones, loitering munitions, and kamikaze drones. The exercise was conducted in an electronically contested environment to simulate real-world combat conditions.

(iii) Prachand Prahar follows Exercise Poorvi Prahar, which took place in November 2024 in AR and focused on the integrated application of aviation assets.

Main Point :-   (i) According to MoD, the first contract is for the supply of 66 LCHs to the Indian Air Force (IAF), while the second is for the supply of 90 LCHs to the Indian Army (IA).

      (ii) The supply of these LCHs is expected to begin from the third year (2027-28) and will be spread over the next five years.

(iii) The 156 LCHs will be manufactured at HAL's helicopter factories located in Bengaluru and Tumkur, Karnataka, with an annual production rate of 30 LCHs.

      - India hosted the 13th edition of Exercise INDRA in the Bay of Bengal in November 2023.

Main Point :-   (i) The exercise is structured into two phases. The Harbour Phase will take place from March 28 to 30, 2025, in Chennai. It includes the opening ceremony, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), reciprocal ship visits, sports events, and pre-sail briefings for participating personnel.

      (ii) The Sea Phase will be held from March 31 to April 2, 2025, in the Bay of Bengal. This phase features advanced drills such as tactical maneuvers, live weapon firings, anti-air operations, underway replenishment, helicopter cross-deck landings, and sea-rider exchanges.

(iii) The 14th edition of Exercise 'INDRA' features the participation of Russian Naval Ships Pechanga, Rezkiy, and Aldar Tsydenzhapov, along with Indian Naval Ships Rana and Kuthar, supported by the Maritime Patrol Aircraft P8I.

      - The contract, worth Rs 1,801.34 crore, was awarded for the NAMIS developed by Hyderabad (Telangana)-based DRDL, a unit of DRDO. The missile system has a range of 500 meters to 4 km, a speed of 230 meters per second, and is designed to enhance the Mechanised Infantry’s anti-tank capabilities with fire-and-forget technology and advanced sighting for precision strikes.

Main Point :-   (i) The MoD signed a Rs 698.66 crore deal for 5,000 light vehicles, manufactured by Pune (Maharashtra)-based Force Motors Limited and Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based Mahindra & Mahindra Limited. These vehicles feature an 800 kg payload capacity and improved engine power for enhanced mobility across diverse terrains.

      (ii) The NAMIS (Tracked) is a third-generation anti-tank guided missile system designed for mechanized warfare. It offers fire-and-forget capability, reducing the need for manual guidance, improving battlefield survivability, and increasing lethality. The system is mounted on a tank-track platform and carries the NAG missile.

(iii) The newly procured light vehicles incorporate modern automotive technology to support troop movement, logistics, and rapid deployment. Their ability to operate in difficult terrains, including deserts and mountains, ensures seamless mobility for the Armed Forces during critical missions.

      - Tavasya, named after Bhima's mace in the Mahabharata, symbolizes the Indian Navy's strength. The frigate measures 124.8m in length, 15.2m in width, and has a 4.5m draught, with a displacement of 3,600 tons and a top speed of 28 knots. It features stealth capabilities, BrahMos missile systems, torpedo launchers, and advanced sonar and sensor systems, enhancing its combat effectiveness.

Main Point :-   (i) In October 2016, India and Russia signed an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) for four Krivak-class stealth frigates. Two were built in Russia and imported for USD 1 billion, while the remaining two are being constructed in India by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) under a USD 500 million technology transfer agreement with ROSOBORONEXPORT (Russia) for materials and design assistance.

      (ii) INS Tushil, the first Russian-built frigate, was commissioned on December 9, 2024, while INS Tamal, the second, is undergoing trials and is expected to be commissioned by June 2025.

(iii) On January 25, 2019, the Ministry of Defence (MoD), Government of India (GoI) signed a contract with GSL for the construction of two Project 1135.6 frigates. The first indigenous frigate, Triput, was launched on July 23, 2024, followed by Tavasya as the second.

Main Point :-   i. The DAC has sanctioned the procurement of a 1350 HorsePower (HP) engine, Varunastra torpedoes, and Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) Aircraft Systems.

      ii. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by Prime Minister (PM) of India Narendra Modi, has approved a ₹7,000 crore contract for the procurement of 155 millimeter (mm) Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS).

IA plans to acquire 307 units along with 327 gun-towing vehicles, gradually replacing older 105 mm and 130 mm artillery systems.

      - The initiative saw participation from leading research organizations, including Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (CSIR-IMMT) (Bhubaneswar, Odisha), the Swedish Energy Agency (Sweden), and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) (Philippines).

Main Point :-   (i) The SteelCollab web portal was launched as a digital platform to connect industry leaders, academia, researchers, and startups for collaboration on decarbonization, digitalization, and advanced steel development.

      (ii) The Challenge Method Scheme aims to tackle critical steel industry challenges like improving plant efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. The Open Innovation Method Scheme promotes research collaboration between academia and the steel industry, while the Start-up Accelerator Scheme provides funding and mentorship to early-stage startups working on advanced steel technologies.

(iii) These initiatives focus on innovation, sustainability, and industry collaboration, supporting India's goal of achieving 300 million tonnes (MT) of steel production capacity by 2030.

      - The shipyard has also secured an additional contract to build 4 Sullage Barges for the Indian Navy, reflecting the Navy’s commitment to supporting MSMEs.

Main Point :-   (i) The ACTCM Barges were indigenously designed by the shipyard in collaboration with an Indian Ship Designing firm. To ensure seaworthiness, the design underwent model testing at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The construction adheres to the regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).

      (ii) The induction of LSAM 23 aligns with the Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, reinforcing self-reliance in defense manufacturing. This step highlights India's growing capabilities in indigenous shipbuilding and maritime logistics.

(iii) These barges will enhance the Indian Navy’s operational efficiency by enabling the seamless transportation, embarkation, and disembarkation of ammunition and essential supplies to naval platforms, both at jetties and outer harbors, ensuring sustained maritime operations.

Main Point :-   (i) The radar is designed and developed by the Electronics & Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), a Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) laboratory under the MoD.

      (ii) The radar features active electronically scanned phased array technology with a solid-state design and is capable of tracking aerial targets, ranging from high-speed fighter jets to slow-moving targets such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and helicopters.

(iii) BEL, established in 1954, is a Navratna Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU) under the MoD, headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

Main Point :-   (i) National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets based in Shillong witnessed the exercise, gaining firsthand exposure to specialized tri-service operations.

      (ii) The joint-service drill highlights the IAF's commitment to strengthening combat readiness, tri-service coordination, and rapid-response capabilities in diverse terrains.

      - The exercises facilitate the exchange of maritime crime-related information, effective data management, vessel identification involved in illegal activities, and crime prevention strategies, strengthening bilateral naval cooperation.

Main Point :-   (i) These exercises play a crucial role in improving regional maritime security, addressing security risks, and promoting the development of the maritime economy through strategic collaborations and operational synergy.

      (ii) Naval ships and aircraft from both countries conducted joint patrolling along the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), followed by maritime exercises that included communication drills, surface gun-shoots, tactical maneuvers, and a concluding steam past.

(iii) The 4th edition of BONGOSAGAR-23 and the 5th edition of CORPAT took place from November 7 to 9, 2023, in the Northern Bay of Bengal. CORPAT-23 also featured the first-ever Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) drills, incorporating search and rescue operations at sea.

Main Point :-   (i) The T-72 tank, first introduced in India in the 1970s, remains a crucial part of the Indian Army’s (IA) armored fleet, with approximately 2,500 tanks in active service. These tanks are currently powered by a 780 HP engine.

      (ii) Equipping the existing T-72 fleet with 1000 HP engines will enhance the Indian Army’s battlefield mobility and offensive capabilities.

(iii) Apart from its 2,400 T-72 tanks, the Indian Army has inducted 1,300 T-90S 'Bhishma' tanks out of the 1,657 being manufactured under license from Russia by the Heavy Vehicles Factory.

      - This high-intensity exercise aimed to improve interoperability, coordination, and synergy among the three Special Forces units to respond quickly and effectively to recent emergent security challenges.

Main Point :-   (i) The exercise comprised airborne insertion, precise strikes, hostage rescue, counter-terrorism operations, combat free falls, and urban warfare scenarios that assessed the combat readiness of the forces under realistic situations.

      (ii) Senior military officials supervised the exercise, which validated joint doctrines. It also provided a platform to reinforce the IAF’s commitment to strengthening national security through seamless inter-service cooperation.

      - This high-intensity exercise aimed to improve interoperability, coordination, and synergy among the three Special Forces units to respond quickly and effectively to recent emergent security challenges.

Main Point :-   (i) The exercise comprised airborne insertion, precise strikes, hostage rescue, counter-terrorism operations, combat free falls, and urban warfare scenarios that assessed the combat readiness of the forces under realistic situations.

      (ii) Senior military officials supervised the exercise, which validated joint doctrines. It also provided a platform to reinforce the IAF’s commitment to strengthening national security through seamless inter-service cooperation.

Main Point :-   (i) The conversion process will involve a thorough cleaning of the ship to remove any potential pollutants or hazardous materials, ensuring environmental approvals as per guidelines.

      (ii) The INS Guldar was built at Gdynia Shipyard, Poland, and was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1985.

(iii) The design was developed in collaboration with the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune, Maharashtra, and the Indian Army.

Main Point :-   (i) During the exercise, security personnel were deployed to the coast via hovercraft. The exercise simulated securing critical infrastructure and responding to potential land-based threats, enhancing overall preparedness.

      (ii) The District Administration of Devbhoomi Dwarka, along with the Forest Department, Maritime Board of Gujarat Energy, and National Security Guard (NSG), supervised the operations, ensuring smooth coordination and effective response strategies.

      - The exercise aligns with Chapter VII of the United Nations (UN) Charter, emphasizing international security and military collaboration, and its 2nd edition was held in Anshas, Egypt, from January 22 to February 1, 2024.

Main Point :-   (i) Cyclone 2025 is a joint military exercise focused on combat in urban areas and hostage rescue. The Indian Army's Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and Egypt’s Commando Squadron and Airborne Platoon are participating under the motto, "Together we train, together we excel." The operation includes counter-terrorism missions, raids, reconnaissance, and special forces skills such as sniping, combat free fall, surveillance, and target designation.

      (ii) The exercise will also feature military demonstrations, discussions, and training on handling Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), countering them, and providing first aid in combat situations. Special focus will be given to operational planning and execution in challenging environments.

(iii) Additionally, India and Egypt conduct another joint exercise, 'Exercise Desert Warrior,' which involves their respective air forces.

Main Point :-   (i) The EON-51 is a fully indigenously developed system designed to enhance the Indian Navy's operational efficiency by enabling the search, detection, and classification of various targets using electro-optical and thermal imaging technology.

      (ii) These advanced systems significantly boost the Indian Navy's operational capabilities by providing superior target search, detection, classification, and engagement through state-of-the-art electro-optical and thermal imaging devices.

      - Former CNS were briefed on an operational update, covering policy initiatives, technological advancements, materials, operational logistics, and long-term strategic plans.

Main Point :-   (i) An exclusive session, Manthan, was conducted to facilitate open discussions on critical issues, including future warfare, maritime strategy, shifting geopolitical dynamics, and evolving HR frameworks.

      (ii) The conclave reaffirmed the IN’s commitment to continuity, leveraging past leadership’s wisdom while shaping the future of India’s maritime power.

(iii) A book titled "Legacy of Leadership: Naval Chiefs through Time" was released during the Conclave, chronicling the journeys of former CNSs. This collector’s edition features personal stories, rare photographs, and firsthand accounts, offering unique insights into their leadership.

      - This training served as a vital platform for troops to enhance their operational capabilities, ensuring rapid deployment, mission readiness, and highlighting the crucial role of airborne forces in modern warfare for swift and decisive responses in diverse operational scenarios.

Main Point :-   (i) The joint operation demonstrated seamless coordination between the IA and IAF, highlighting the effectiveness of integrated training programs.

      (ii) This exercise reaffirmed both forces' commitment to maintaining a high level of preparedness to counter evolving security threats.

(iii) On February 9, 2025, IA Chief General Upendra Dwivedi and IAF Air Chief Marshal AP Singh undertook a historic flight together in the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, India's single-engine multirole fighter aircraft.