Defence Current Affairs 10 March 2026

In Current Affairs for 10 March 2026, we will see the latest national and international current affairs news. These important current affairs will be beneficial...

Divyanshu Pandey
March 10, 2026

In Current Affairs for 10 March 2026, we will see the latest national and international current affairs news. These important current affairs will be beneficial for your upcoming NDA, CDS, CDS OTA, AFCAT, TA, Agniveer Army, Agniveer Navy, Agniveer Air Force, Women Military Police, INET, MNS, ACC exams, SCO, PCSL, CAPF, and SSB interviews, and direct entries for Army, Navy, and Air Force like SSC Tech, TGC, JAG, NCC, TES, 10+2 Cadet. Download a PDF file about current events at the end of this article. Let us now see the Current Affairs.

Defence Current Affairs 10 March 2026

Israel-US vs Iran war Day 11

The Iran–Israel war entered its 11th day on Tuesday, with heavy military strikes continuing across the region even as US President Donald Trump suggested the conflict could end “very soon.” Fresh attacks were reported in Tehran and across the Gulf, while regional leaders exchanged urgent diplomatic calls and militant groups vowed to continue fighting.
The escalation has begun to ripple across the wider Middle East and global markets, with energy facilities targeted, shipping security threatened in the Strait of Hormuz, and mounting casualties reported in Lebanon.
Iran rejects US timeline for war’s end
Iran signalled that Washington would not dictate the terms or timing of the conflict’s conclusion.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards responded to Trump’s comments by asserting that Tehran itself would decide when the war ends.
The Guards said they would “determine the end of the war.”
The statement pushed back against suggestions that the United States could control the trajectory of the conflict.
The exchange reflected the deepening rhetorical confrontation between Washington and Tehran as the war enters its second week.

Idea Forge Launches Specialised Drone Flight-Test

India’s drone technology sector has achieved a significant milestone as ideaForge Technology Ltd launched a specialised drone flight-test training programme for military personnel from North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) countries in the United States. The initiative highlights India’s growing global reputation in advanced unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technologies and defence innovation.
Training Programme at NTPS
The training programme is being conducted at the National Test Pilot School (NTPS) in the United States through ideaForge’s American subsidiary, ideaForge Technology Inc. This week-long exercise began on March 9 and aims to provide hands-on training to military personnel from NATO and allied forces across multiple continents.
The initiative marks the first time an Indian UAV company has conducted such specialised training for NATO forces, demonstrating international confidence in India’s indigenous defence technology.
Use of SWITCH UAV Platform
The training programme uses the NATO-certified SWITCH unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed by ideaForge. This advanced drone platform is designed for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and tactical missions. It is capable of operating in diverse terrains and challenging environmental conditions, making it suitable for military operations.
Participants will receive practical training in multiple aspects of drone operations, including:
Flight-test planning and execution
Operational deployment of UAV systems
Telemetry monitoring and payload operations
Mission performance evaluation
Post-flight data analysis
These modules are designed to simulate real operational environments so that trainees can understand the full testing cycle of UAV systems.
Participation from Global Military Forces
The programme has attracted participants from several major defence forces around the world. Military personnel taking part in the training include representatives from:
Royal Canadian Air Force
Israeli Air Force
Indian Navy
German Defence Forces (Bundeswehr)
Australian Air Force
Italian Air Force
Swedish Armed Forces
United States Air Force
The presence of multiple allied forces highlights the international significance of the programme and the increasing role of UAV technology in modern military strategies.
Enhancing Military Capabilities
The training aims to strengthen monitoring, analysis, and tactical capabilities of military personnel involved in drone operations. By replicating real-world missions, the programme allows participants to evaluate UAV performance in surveillance, reconnaissance, and strategic planning tasks.
According to defence experts, the collaboration reflects a broader shift in modern warfare where drones and autonomous systems are becoming central to intelligence gathering and operational effectiveness.

India Emerges as the World’s Second-Largest Arms Importer: SIPRI Report

India has emerged as the world’s second-largest importer of arms and military equipment, according to a recent report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). The report highlights India’s continued dependence on foreign defence equipment despite growing efforts to boost domestic manufacturing under initiatives such as Make in India.
Global Ranking in Arms Imports
The SIPRI analysis of international arms transfers between 2021 and 2025 shows that Ukraine was the largest arms importer globally, accounting for about 9.7% of global imports, largely due to its ongoing war with Russia. India ranked second, representing about 8.2–8.3% of global arms imports during the same period.
This indicates that India remains one of the largest defence markets in the world, reflecting its significant security requirements and strategic challenges.
Major Arms Suppliers to India
The report also provides insights into the countries that supply most of India’s defence equipment. Despite diversification, Russia continues to remain India’s largest arms supplier, although its share has gradually declined over time.
The key suppliers of India’s arms imports during the period include:
Russia – about 40% of India’s imports
France – around 29%
Israel – roughly 15%
This shift suggests that India is increasingly diversifying its defence procurement sources and strengthening partnerships with Western countries.
Declining Dependence on Russia
Historically, India relied heavily on Russian defence equipment. However, SIPRI data shows that Russia’s share of India’s arms imports has gradually declined, falling from about 70% in the early 2010s to around 40% in recent years.
This change reflects India’s efforts to reduce dependence on a single supplier and expand defence cooperation with countries such as France, Israel, and the United States.
Reasons Behind High Arms Imports
Several factors contribute to India’s high level of defence imports:
Regional security challenges, including tensions with neighbouring countries.
Modernisation of the armed forces, which requires advanced aircraft, missile systems, and surveillance technology.
Technological gaps in domestic defence manufacturing that still require foreign collaboration.
Push for Indigenous Defence Production
The Indian government has been promoting domestic defence manufacturing through policies like Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India. These initiatives aim to strengthen indigenous production and reduce long-term dependence on foreign suppliers.
Although imports remain significant, India is increasingly investing in domestic defence industries, joint ventures, and technology transfers to develop its own advanced military systems.

India–Seychelles Troops Begin Joint Military Exercise ‘Lamitiye’

India and Seychelles have started the joint military exercise “Lamitiye”, aimed at strengthening defence cooperation and improving operational coordination between the armed forces of both countries. The exercise highlights the growing strategic partnership between India and the island nation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Location and Duration of the Exercise
The 11th edition of Exercise Lamitiye is being held at the Seychelles Defence Academy from 9 March to 20 March 2026. The joint training programme brings together troops from the Indian Armed Forces and the Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF) to enhance their military cooperation and exchange operational expertise.
- Tri-Service Participation by IndiaA significant feature of this year’s exercise is the participation of all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces—the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- The Indian contingent includes:Personnel from the Assam Regiment of the Indian ArmyDeployment of the Indian Navy warship INS TrikandParticipation of the Indian Air Force with a C-130 transport aircraftThis tri-service involvement reflects India’s focus on joint military operations and integrated defence capabilities.
- Training Activities and Military Drills
- During the exercise, troops from both countries will participate in several military activities designed to enhance tactical coordination and combat readiness. These include:Field training exercisesTactical planning and combat discussionsCase studies on military operationsLectures and technology demonstrations
- Validation exercises to test operational readinessThe drills are mainly focused on sub-conventional operations in semi-urban environments, which are increasingly relevant for modern security challenges.
- Meaning and History of the Exercise
- The term “Lamitiye” means “friendship” in the Creole language, symbolizing the close defence partnership between India and Seychelles. The exercise is conducted every two years (biennially) and has been hosted in Seychelles since 2001.

Bengaluru-Based Hical Technologies to Supply Components for Rafale Fighter Aircraft

India’s aerospace manufacturing sector has achieved a significant milestone as Hical Technologies, a Bengaluru-based aerospace manufacturer, secured a long-term contract from Dassault Aviation to supply critical components for the Dassault Rafale fighter aircraft. This agreement reflects the growing participation of Indian companies in the global aerospace and defence supply chain.
Long-Term Contract for Rafale Components
Under the agreement, Hical Technologies will manufacture high-precision electromechanical assemblies used in the control systems of Rafale fighter jets. These components are essential for the aircraft’s operational performance and must meet strict engineering, qualification, and reliability standards set by Dassault Aviation.
The contract highlights the trust placed by the French aerospace company in Indian engineering and manufacturing capabilities.
Role of Hical Technologies
Hical Technologies specializes in precision aerospace manufacturing, producing advanced electromechanical systems used in aircraft and defence equipment. With this new contract, the company will become a key supplier in the production ecosystem of the Rafale fighter jet.
According to company officials, years of investment in engineering, quality control, and manufacturing discipline helped the firm achieve this global partnership.
Significance for India’s Aerospace Industry
The deal is considered a major achievement for India’s defence manufacturing sector. By becoming part of the Rafale supply chain, Hical Technologies strengthens India’s position as an emerging hub for aerospace production.
Experts believe such collaborations will:
Increase India’s role in global defence manufacturing
Boost exports of aerospace components
Strengthen technological capabilities in precision engineering
Support the government’s goal of expanding domestic defence production
About the Rafale Fighter Aircraft
The Dassault Rafale is one of the world’s most advanced multi-role combat aircraft developed by Dassault Aviation. It is capable of performing air superiority, ground attack, reconnaissance, and nuclear deterrence missions.
The aircraft is currently operated by several air forces, including the Indian Air Force, and is known for its advanced avionics, radar systems, and weapon capabilities.
Strengthening India–France Defence Cooperation
The partnership between Hical Technologies and Dassault Aviation also strengthens defence and industrial collaboration between India and France. Over the years, multiple Indian companies have joined the Rafale manufacturing ecosystem, contributing components and engineering support.

Review Questions

1. Which Indian company signed a contract with Dassault Aviation to supply components for the Dassault Rafale fighter jet?
A. Tata Advanced Systems
B. Bharat Electronics Ltd
C. Hical Technologies
D. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited

Answer: C
Explanation: Bengaluru-based Hical Technologies received the contract to supply components for the Rafale aircraft.

2. Hical Technologies is headquartered in which Indian city?
A. Hyderabad
B. Chennai
C. Pune
D. Bengaluru

Answer: D
Explanation: The aerospace manufacturing company operates from Bengaluru.

3. The Rafale fighter aircraft is developed by which company?
A. Boeing
B. Lockheed Martin
C. Dassault Aviation
D. Airbus

Answer: C
Explanation: Rafale is developed and manufactured by Dassault Aviation of France.

4. The components supplied by Hical Technologies will mainly be used in which system of the Rafale aircraft?
A. Weapon system
B. Navigation system
C. Engine system
D. Control system

Answer: D
Explanation: Hical will supply electromechanical assemblies used in the aircraft’s control systems.

5. Which type of assemblies will Hical Technologies manufacture for Rafale jets?
A. Hydraulic assemblies
B. Electromechanical assemblies
C. Nuclear components
D. Radar components

Answer: B
Explanation: The company will produce precision electromechanical assemblies.

6. The Rafale aircraft is primarily classified as a:
A. Transport aircraft
B. Trainer aircraft
C. Multirole fighter aircraft
D. Bomber aircraft

Answer: C
Explanation: Rafale is designed for multiple roles such as air combat, reconnaissance, and ground attack.

7. Which country manufactures the Rafale fighter jet?
A. United States
B. Russia
C. United Kingdom
D. France

Answer: D
Explanation: Rafale is produced by Dassault Aviation in France.

8. The agreement between Hical Technologies and Dassault Aviation reflects:
A. Decline of Indian defence industry
B. Growing role of Indian firms in global aerospace supply chains
C. Privatization of the Indian Air Force
D. Reduction in defence cooperation

Answer: B
Explanation: Indian companies are increasingly participating in global defence manufacturing.

9. The Rafale aircraft is used by which Indian military branch?
A. Indian Army
B. Indian Air Force
C. Indian Navy
D. Border Security Force

Answer: B
Explanation: Rafale jets are currently deployed in the Indian Air Force.

10. The partnership between Hical Technologies and Dassault Aviation strengthens defence relations between India and which country?
A. Germany
B. United States
C. France
D. Israel

Answer: C
Explanation: Dassault Aviation is a French aerospace company.

11. The Rafale aircraft can perform which of the following missions?
A. Air superiority
B. Ground attack
C. Reconnaissance
D. All of the above

Answer: D
Explanation: Rafale is designed for multiple types of missions.

12. Hical Technologies is primarily involved in which sector?
A. Automobile manufacturing
B. Aerospace manufacturing
C. Shipbuilding
D. Electronics retail

Answer: B
Explanation: The company specializes in aerospace and defence manufacturing.

13. The agreement will help India strengthen which capability?
A. Agricultural production
B. Space tourism
C. Aerospace component manufacturing
D. Textile production

Answer: C
Explanation: The contract boosts India’s aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.

14. Which government initiative promotes domestic defence manufacturing in India?
A. Digital India
B. Skill India
C. Make in India
D. Green India

Answer: C
Explanation: Make in India aims to boost domestic manufacturing including defence.

15. The agreement with Dassault Aviation is considered important because it:
A. Reduces aircraft production
B. Ends foreign cooperation
C. Integrates Indian companies into global aerospace supply chains
D. Stops defence imports

Answer: C

16. Which type of standards must aerospace components meet?
A. Agricultural standards
B. Engineering and reliability standards
C. Medical standards
D. Tourism standards

Answer: B
Explanation: Aerospace parts require strict engineering and safety standards.

17. The Rafale aircraft is known for its:
A. Advanced avionics
B. Multi-mission capability
C. Modern radar systems
D. All of the above

Answer: D

18. Which sector benefits from Indian companies joining global defence supply chains?
A. Tourism
B. Aerospace and defence manufacturing
C. Agriculture
D. Textile industry

Answer: B

19. The collaboration between Hical Technologies and Dassault Aviation will likely increase:
A. Aerospace exports from India
B. Agricultural imports
C. Textile production
D. Railway exports

Answer: A

20. The contract signed by Hical Technologies is an example of:
A. International defence industrial cooperation
B. Agricultural trade agreement
C. Cultural exchange programme
D. Tourism development project

Answer: A

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Divyanshu Pandey

Senior Lecturer General Studies, SSBCrackExams, Cleared CDS 4 times, NDA 2 times, Ex- N.C.C. cadet, SSB Expert. Passionate Teacher, Trained defence aspirants for their SSB Interview, BSc in PCM expertise in Geography, Indian Polity, Current Affairs and Defence affairs. Writing Article and Travelling solo.

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