In Defence Current Affairs for 27 October 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 27 October 2026
DAC Approves Defence Procurement Proposals Worth ₹2.12 Lakh Crore
Introduction
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for defence procurement proposals worth approximately ₹2.12 lakh crore on 26 October 2026. The approvals cover the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force, with the objective of strengthening their operational readiness and combat capabilities.
Major Approvals for the Indian Army
The Army’s proposals include a wide range of mobility, artillery, air-defence, surveillance and unmanned systems. These include:
- High Mobility Vehicles (HMVs)
- Self-Propelled Tracked Gun Systems
- Gun Shot Response Systems (GSRS)
- Light Multi-Role Helicopters (LMRH)
- Very Short-Range Air Defence Systems (VSHORADS)
- Platform-Based Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS)
- Long-range unmanned aerial and surveillance systems
- Integrated Surveillance and Strike Systems
- Long-Range Kamikaze Drone Systems
These procurements are intended to improve the Army’s mobility in difficult terrain, provide mechanised formations with suitable firepower, and strengthen battlefield awareness through real-time information systems.
The LMRHs are intended to support both the Army and the Air Force in reconnaissance, surveillance, combat, search and rescue, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. VSHORADS will help counter emerging small aerial threats, while counter-drone systems are expected to improve the survivability of armoured vehicles.
Approvals for the Indian Navy
For the Navy, the council cleared the procurement of an Active Offboard Decoy System (AODS) along with other major naval platforms.
The AODS is intended to strengthen protection against anti-ship missiles by improving the effectiveness of naval missile-defence measures. Modern naval platforms designed and built in India are also expected to enhance the Navy’s ability to operate in contemporary maritime combat environments.
Approvals for the Indian Air Force
The Air Force received approval for helicopters, air-defence systems, weapons and Mobile X-Band Doppler Weather Radar Systems.
Special Utility Helicopters are expected to address important air-transport requirements. The X-Band Doppler radar systems will provide detailed, localised weather information in forward areas, supporting operational planning and flight safety.
Focus on Domestic Defence Manufacturing
A major feature of the approvals is the emphasis on indigenous procurement. According to the supplied information, approximately 82% of the approved procurement value is intended to be sourced from Indian industry.
This approach supports domestic defence manufacturing, reduces reliance on foreign suppliers and contributes to India’s objective of building stronger indigenous military capabilities.
Key Facts for Revision
- Approving body: Defence Acquisition Council
- Chairperson: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
- Date: 26 October 2026
- Total estimated value: ₹2.12 lakh crore
- Share planned from Indian industry: Approximately 82%
- Services covered: Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force
India to Participate in the 13th ADMM-Plus Meeting in the Philippines
Introduction
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to lead India’s delegation to the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Cebu, the Philippines, on 28–29 October 2026. The meeting provides an important platform for dialogue and cooperation on regional and international security issues.
India’s Participation
During the meeting, the Indian Defence Minister is expected to address participants on the subject of “Exchange of Views on Regional and International Security Issues.” Bilateral discussions with defence ministers from participating countries are also planned to review existing defence relations and identify opportunities for closer strategic cooperation.
India’s participation reflects its continuing engagement with Southeast Asian countries and its commitment to regional peace and stability.
What Is ADMM-Plus?
The ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus is a multilateral framework that brings together ASEAN member states and eight dialogue partners to strengthen defence cooperation and address shared security concerns.
The ASEAN members listed in the supplied notes are Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Vietnam.
The eight dialogue partners are:
- India
- United States
- China
- Russia
- Japan
- South Korea
- Australia
- New Zealand
The platform facilitates discussions, practical cooperation and engagement on common defence and security challenges.
Background and India’s Role
India became a dialogue partner of ASEAN in 1992. The inaugural ADMM-Plus meeting took place in Hanoi, Vietnam, on 12 October 2010. Since 2017, defence ministers have met annually under the framework to strengthen cooperation between ASEAN and its dialogue partners.
The Philippines holds the chairmanship of ADMM-Plus for 2026. India is also co-chairing the Experts Working Group on Counter-Terrorism with Malaysia for the 2024–2027 cycle, according to the supplied information.
Significance for India’s Act East Policy
ADMM-Plus provides India with an opportunity to strengthen defence diplomacy, expand strategic partnerships and cooperate on counter-terrorism and other security challenges.
India’s engagement with the forum complements its Act East Policy, which seeks deeper political, economic and strategic ties with Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific region.
Key Facts for Revision
- Meeting: 13th ADMM-Plus
- Venue: Cebu, Philippines
- Dates: 28–29 October 2026
- Indian delegation leader: Rajnath Singh
- India became an ASEAN dialogue partner: 1992
- First ADMM-Plus meeting: Hanoi, Vietnam, 12 October 2010
- India’s working-group role: Co-chair of the Experts Working Group on Counter-Terrorism with Malaysia, 2024–2027
India Becomes the Third-Largest Exporter of Defence Goods to Europe
Introduction
India’s expanding defence manufacturing sector is opening new opportunities in international markets. According to Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, India has become the third-largest exporter of arms to Europe, with increased demand for defence products linked in part to Europe’s Rearm Europe initiative.
India’s defence exports have also reached a record level, reflecting the growing contribution of domestic public-sector and private-sector manufacturers.
Record Defence Exports
India’s defence exports reached ₹38,424 crore in financial year 2025–26, equivalent to approximately €3.6 billion or US$4 billion, as stated in the supplied material. The notes report growth of 62.66% over the previous financial year.
The reported increase reflects the growing capacity of Indian companies to manufacture and supply a range of defence products for international customers.
What Is Driving Exports to Europe?
The supplied report attributes part of the rise in exports to European demand under the Rearm Europe initiative. Indian manufacturers have reportedly supplied products such as standard ammunition, artillery shells and ammunition of different calibres.
This demand has created opportunities for Indian defence manufacturers to expand their presence in overseas markets.
Contribution of Public and Private Enterprises
India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem includes public-sector companies, private manufacturers, smaller enterprises and startups. The Defence Secretary highlighted the expansion of this ecosystem over the preceding decade.
The supplied figures break down defence exports in FY 2025–26 as follows:
| Sector | Export value | Share of total |
|---|---|---|
| Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) | ₹21,071 crore | 54.84% |
| Private sector | ₹17,353 crore | 45.16% |
| Total | ₹38,424 crore | 100% |
The notes report a year-on-year increase of 151% for DPSUs and 14% for the private sector.
India is also reported to export defence products to more than 80 countries, demonstrating the international reach of its defence industry.
Emphasis on Indigenous Manufacturing
The government aims to direct a substantial share of annual defence capital expenditure towards domestic industry. The supplied notes describe a target of spending 75% of defence capital expenditure within India, with priority given to IDDM products—Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured products.
This approach seeks to strengthen technological sovereignty, support Indian manufacturers and reduce dependence on imported defence equipment.
Significance
Rising exports can help Indian defence companies expand production, invest in research and development, and become more competitive internationally. A stronger domestic manufacturing base can also support national security by increasing access to locally developed equipment and technologies.
Key Facts for Revision
- Defence Secretary mentioned: Rajesh Kumar Singh
- India’s reported position in European arms exports: Third
- Defence exports in FY 2025–26: ₹38,424 crore
- Reported year-on-year export growth: 62.66%
- DPSU contribution: ₹21,071 crore
- Private-sector contribution: ₹17,353 crore
- Export destinations: More than 80 countries
- IDDM: Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured
India Plans to Expand Battle Tank Overhaul Capacity
Introduction
India is working to strengthen its ability to maintain and overhaul ageing battle tanks operated by the Indian Army. An important part of this effort involves recovering technical knowledge from decades-old Soviet engineering drawings, many of which are written in Russian.
The initiative is being undertaken at Vehicle Factory Jabalpur (VFJ), in coordination with the Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF) in Avadi, Tamil Nadu.
Decoding Legacy Engineering Drawings
Overhauling a battle tank requires detailed technical information about its components, specialised fixtures and assembly procedures. The age of the original documentation and the language in which it was prepared can make this process challenging.
According to the supplied report, engineers at VFJ have deciphered nearly 70% of the old drawings for specialised fixtures needed during tank overhauls. Where original designs are unavailable, Indian engineers are developing alternative solutions.
This work aims to build domestic expertise and reduce dependence on inaccessible legacy technical documentation.
Target: 80 Tanks Annually
VFJ aims to overhaul 80 Indian Army tanks every year from April 2028. If achieved, this would establish Jabalpur as a second major tank-overhaul centre alongside Avadi.
Expanding overhaul capacity could improve the availability of armoured vehicles by supporting repairs, restoring equipment and extending the useful service life of existing platforms.
Tanks Covered by India’s Armoured Fleet
The Indian Army operates Soviet-origin T-72 Ajeya tanks and Russian-designed T-90 Bhishma main battle tanks. Maintaining these vehicles requires specialised facilities, skilled personnel and access to detailed engineering information.
The report identifies Avadi as an important centre in India’s tank-manufacturing programme. In 2001, a contract was signed for the licensed production of 1,000 T-90 tanks at the Heavy Vehicles Factory, following an earlier agreement involving the procurement of 310 tanks and technology transfer.
Strategic Significance
Developing additional overhaul capacity can strengthen India’s armoured readiness and maintenance infrastructure. It can also preserve technical expertise within the country and support the long-term sustainment of existing military equipment.
The initiative highlights the importance of lifecycle support, domestic engineering capabilities and industrial self-reliance alongside the acquisition of new defence platforms.
Key Facts for Revision
- Factory expanding overhaul capacity: Vehicle Factory Jabalpur (VFJ)
- Partner facility: Heavy Vehicles Factory, Avadi
- Drawings deciphered: Nearly 70% of the specialised-fixture drawings
- Annual overhaul target: 80 tanks
- Target start: April 2028
- Tank models mentioned: T-72 Ajeya and T-90 Bhishma
INS Trishul Visits Italy to Strengthen India–Italy Naval Cooperation
Introduction
The Indian Navy’s INS Trishul arrived at Civitavecchia, Italy, on 25 October 2026 during its operational deployment to the Mediterranean Sea. The port call reflects ongoing efforts by the Indian and Italian navies to strengthen professional engagement and maritime cooperation.
Passage Exercise with the Italian Navy
Before entering the port, INS Trishul conducted a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Italian naval ship Carlo Margottini.
The exercise involved several coordinated activities, including:
- Tactical manoeuvring drills
- Communication procedures
- Replenishment approaches
- Cross-deck landings
- Personnel transfers
- Boarding operations
These activities enabled the participating crews to exchange operational practices and improve coordination between the two navies.
Activities During the Port Visit
During its stay in Italy, INS Trishul was scheduled to participate in professional interactions, cultural visits and exchanges. The ship was also expected to welcome visitors, offering an opportunity to learn about the Indian Navy’s traditions and maritime capabilities.
Such port calls help naval personnel build professional relationships and provide opportunities for interaction beyond operational exercises.
Importance of India–Italy Maritime Relations
India and Italy share an interest in maintaining maritime security and strengthening cooperation at sea. Joint exercises and naval visits help improve communication, familiarity with operational procedures and mutual understanding between their armed forces.
INS Trishul’s visit also highlights the Indian Navy’s operational presence in the Mediterranean and its engagement with international maritime partners.
Significance
PASSEX activities contribute to interoperability by allowing ships from different navies to practise coordinated procedures. These interactions can support cooperation during future maritime deployments and contribute to broader efforts to maintain safe and secure sea routes.
Review Questions
- The Defence Acquisition Council approved capital acquisition proposals worth
approximately how much on 26 October 2026?
A) ₹1.10 lakh crore
B) ₹1.75 lakh crore
C) ₹2.12 lakh crore
D) ₹2.50 lakh crore
Correct Answer: C) ₹2.12 lakh crore - Approximately what percentage of the approved procurement value is intended
to be sourced from Indian industry?
A) 60%
B) 70%
C) 75%
D) 82%
Correct Answer: D) 82% - Where will the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) be held
in 2026?
A) Hanoi, Vietnam
B) Cebu, Philippines
C) Jakarta, Indonesia
D) Bangkok, Thailand
Correct Answer: B) Cebu, Philippines - India became a dialogue partner of ASEAN in which year?
A) 1989
B) 1992
C) 2001
D) 2010
Correct Answer: B) 1992 - India’s defence exports reached what value in FY
2025–26?
A) ₹21,071 crore
B) ₹30,000 crore
C) ₹38,424 crore
D) ₹45,000 crore
Correct Answer: C) ₹38,424 crore - What does IDDM stand for in India’s defence procurement framework?
A) Indian Defence Development Mission
B) Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured
C) Integrated Defence Deployment Mechanism
D) Indigenous Defence Distribution Model
Correct Answer: B) Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured - Vehicle Factory Jabalpur aims to overhaul how many Army tanks annually from
April 2028?
A) 50 tanks
B) 60 tanks
C) 80 tanks
D) 100 tanks
Correct Answer: C) 80 tanks - Which Italian naval ship participated in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with INS
Trishul?
A) ITS Cavour
B) Carlo Margottini
C) ITS Andrea Doria
D) ITS Trieste
Correct Answer: B) Carlo Margottini - INS Trishul arrived at which Italian port on 25 October 2026?
A) Naples
B) Venice
C) Genoa
D) Civitavecchia
Correct Answer: D) Civitavecchia - Exercises B/w India And Nepal Lanka Is Called:
A. Vayu
B. SLINEX
C. Indra
D. Surya Kiran
ANSWER: D - AEW&CS Stands For
A. Airborne Early Warning and Center System
B. Airborne East Warning and Control System
C. Airborne Early Warning and Control System
D. None of the above
ANSWER: C - Air Marshal Rank of IAF Is Equivalent to which rank of Indian Navy?
A. Commodore
B. Captain
C. Commander
D. Vice Admiral
ANSWER: D - ‘CORPS’ In Indian Army Headed By__
A. General Officer Commanding (GOC)
B. General Officer Commanding-in-chief (GOC-in-C)
C. Major General
D. Brigadier
ANSWER: A - Which Is/Are The Combat Arms of The Indian Army?
A. Infantry
B. The Armoured Corp
C. The Mechanized Infantry
D. All of the above
ANSWER: D - Bugatti Car Manufactured By
A. Germany
B. France
C. Mexico
D. USA
ANSWER: B - India Purchased Dragunov SVD from
A. USA
B. Sweden
C. France
D. USSR
ANSWER: D - Oslo Is The Capital Of
A. Norway
B. Palau
C. Philippines
D. Maldives
ANSWER: A - “Mind-Master” Book Is Written By
A. Roopa Pai
B. Neha J Hiranandani
C. M Venkaiah Naidu
D. Viswanathan Anand and Susan Ninan
ANSWER: D - Heckler & Koch MP5 Is A
A. Submachine gun
B. Machine pistol
C. Sniper rifle
D. Anti-material rifle
ANSWER: A - Lt Gen. Rank of Indian Army Is To Which Rank Of IAF?
A. Vice Admiral
B. Air Commodore
C. Commodore
D. Air Marshal
ANSWER: D
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