In Defence Current Affairs for 28 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 28 October 2026
Exercise GARUDA SHAKTI 2026
The 11th edition of the India–Indonesia Joint Special Forces Exercise GARUDA SHAKTI commenced at Banyuwangi, Indonesia, on 27 October 2026. Scheduled to continue until 6 November 2026, the exercise aims to deepen defence cooperation and improve operational coordination between the Special Forces of both countries.
Participating Contingents
The Indian contingent consists of personnel from the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), while Indonesia is represented by its Special Forces personnel. The joint deployment provides an opportunity for both sides to exchange operational experience and develop a better understanding of each other’s procedures.
Major Training Activities
The exercise focuses on special operations in jungle terrain. The training programme includes:
- Jungle warfare tactics and operational procedures.
- Obstacle crossing and combat marksmanship.
- Mountaineering and air assault training.
- Combat-hardening sessions to improve physical endurance.
- Exchanges of knowledge concerning weapons, equipment and operational practices.
The exercise will conclude with a validation exercise involving realistic operational scenarios. This final phase will assess the participating troops’ endurance, coordination and combat preparedness.
Significance
GARUDA SHAKTI strengthens military-to-military relations between India and Indonesia. Joint training in challenging environments helps improve interoperability, mutual trust and the ability of Special Forces to coordinate during complex missions.
Important facts for examinations
- Exercise: GARUDA SHAKTI 2026
- Edition: 11th
- Countries: India and Indonesia
- Location: Banyuwangi, Indonesia
- Dates: 27 October–6 November 2026
- Indian contingent: Parachute Regiment (Special Forces)
- Main focus: Special operations in jungle environments
Indian Navy Launches Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel Srishti
The Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV), Yard 1283, named Srishti, was launched at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), Goa, on 27 October 2026. The launch ceremony was conducted by Smt Sandeepa Sahay in the presence of Shri Vishvajit Sahay, Secretary (Defence Finance).
The vessel represents another milestone in India’s efforts to strengthen indigenous naval shipbuilding and enhance maritime security capabilities.
Capabilities and Operational Roles
The indigenously designed and constructed NGOPVs are intended to supplement the Indian Navy’s existing Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) and New Offshore Patrol Vessels (NOPVs). These ships will support a range of maritime missions, including:
- Maritime surveillance and monitoring.
- Search and Rescue (SAR) operations.
- Protection of offshore assets.
- Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR).
- Anti-piracy operations.
Their multi-domain roles are intended to improve the Navy’s ability to respond to maritime security challenges and emergencies.
Indigenous Shipbuilding Initiative
Construction of the NGOPVs is being undertaken simultaneously at two Indian shipyards: Goa Shipyard Limited in Goa and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata.
The vessel’s name, Srishti, is derived from Sanskrit and means “creation” or “the act of creating.” The name reflects India’s cultural heritage while the ship itself demonstrates the country’s growing focus on domestic defence manufacturing.
Significance
The launch supports the Government of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives. Indigenous shipbuilding helps develop domestic industrial capabilities, strengthens the naval supply chain and supports the modernisation of the Indian Navy.
Important facts for examinations
- Vessel: Srishti
- Yard number: 1283
- Type: Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel
- Shipyard: Goa Shipyard Limited
- Launch date: 27 October 2026
- Other shipyard involved in the programme: GRSE, Kolkata
- Major roles: Surveillance, SAR, HADR and anti-piracy operations
Indian Navy Advances Indigenous Barge Construction at Thane Shipyard
Three important milestones in the construction of naval support vessels were achieved on 26 October 2026 at M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt. Ltd., Thane, Maharashtra. The events included the launch of the first Sullage Barge (Yard 142), the keel laying of the third Sullage Barge (Yard 144), and the keel laying of the first Bottom Opening Dumb Barge (Yard 148).
These developments highlight the role of domestic shipyards, including micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), in meeting the operational requirements of the Indian Navy.
Construction Programme
The contract for building four 300-tonne Sullage Barges was concluded with Suryadipta Projects Pvt. Ltd. in November 2024. A separate contract for three Bottom Opening Dumb Barges was concluded in January 2026.
The vessels have been designed and constructed indigenously by the shipyard in collaboration with an Indian ship-design firm and the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), as applicable to the programme.
Operational Importance
These barges are intended to support the operations of Indian Navy platforms and help meet relevant requirements under the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL).
Their construction demonstrates how specialised support vessels contribute to naval logistics and environmentally responsible maritime operations.
Significance
The programme reflects the contribution of Indian MSME shipyards to defence manufacturing. Indigenous construction also supports the Government of India’s Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives by encouraging domestic design, engineering and shipbuilding capabilities.
Important facts for examinations
- Shipyard: M/s Suryadipta Projects Pvt. Ltd., Thane
- Date of milestones: 26 October 2026
- Yard 142: First Sullage Barge launched
- Yard 144: Keel laid for the third Sullage Barge
- Yard 148: Keel laid for the first Bottom Opening Dumb Barge
- Sullage Barge contract: Four vessels of 300-tonne capacity
- Environmental convention: MARPOL
SIMBEX 2026 Concludes at Visakhapatnam
The 33rd edition of the Singapore–India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX-2026), hosted by the Indian Navy at Visakhapatnam, concluded on 26 October 2026. The exercise strengthened maritime cooperation and operational engagement between the Indian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN).
SIMBEX remains an important platform for the two navies to exchange professional knowledge and improve coordination in maritime operations.
Two Phases of the Exercise
The exercise was conducted in two phases: Harbour Phase and Sea Phase.
Harbour Phase: This phase included Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), cross-deck visits, professional interactions, sporting activities and planning conferences. These activities encouraged knowledge-sharing and helped personnel understand each other’s operational procedures.
Sea Phase: Conducted in the Bay of Bengal, this phase featured several naval warfare and maritime coordination activities, including:
- Maritime Interdiction Operations.
- Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW).
- Anti-Air Warfare.
- Anti-Surface Warfare.
- Seamanship exercises.
- Cross-deck flying operations.
These activities were designed to improve coordination, operational effectiveness and interoperability between the participating forces.
Participating Naval Assets
The Republic of Singapore Navy participated with RSS Supreme, a Formidable-class stealth frigate carrying an embarked SH-70B helicopter.
The Indian Navy’s participation included the indigenously built stealth frigate INS Nilgiri, the anti-submarine warfare corvette INS Kamorta, and aviation assets such as P-8I and Dornier maritime patrol aircraft, Hawk Advanced Jet Trainers and MH-60R helicopters.
Significance
SIMBEX-2026 reinforced India–Singapore maritime relations and demonstrated the importance of joint training in maintaining maritime security. The exercise also provided opportunities to practise coordinated responses to complex maritime threats across different operational domains.
Important facts for examinations
- Full form: Singapore–India Maritime Bilateral Exercise
- Edition: 33rd
- Participating navies: Indian Navy and Republic of Singapore Navy
- Host location: Visakhapatnam
- Sea Phase: Bay of Bengal
- Singaporean ship: RSS Supreme
- Indian ships: INS Nilgiri and INS Kamorta
- Conclusion date: 26 October 2026
BRO’s Project ARUNANK Celebrates 19th Raising Day
Project ARUNANK of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) celebrated its 19th Raising Day on 24 October 2026 at Naharlagun, Arunachal Pradesh. The occasion marked nearly two decades of work in developing strategic infrastructure and improving connectivity in the challenging geographical conditions of Arunachal Pradesh.
Established in 2008, Project ARUNANK has played an important role in constructing and maintaining infrastructure in remote border regions.
Role in Border Infrastructure Development
Arunachal Pradesh presents significant engineering challenges due to its rugged mountains, dense forests and difficult climatic conditions. Project ARUNANK undertakes infrastructure development in these demanding environments to improve accessibility and connectivity.
Its work supports the mobility and operational preparedness of the Armed Forces while also benefiting civilians living in remote areas. Better roads and other infrastructure help improve access to essential services and create opportunities for local communities.
Adoption of Modern Engineering Techniques
Project ARUNANK continues to emphasise engineering innovation and sustainable infrastructure development. Its approach includes the use of modern construction technologies and specialised engineering solutions suited to difficult terrain.
Some of the techniques mentioned in the source include:
- Alternative construction materials.
- Geocells for ground stabilisation.
- Slope-protection measures.
- Innovative construction practices to improve infrastructure durability.
These methods help strengthen infrastructure against the demanding environmental conditions encountered in mountainous border areas.
Significance
The work of Project ARUNANK contributes to national security, strategic mobility and regional development. Reliable border infrastructure is essential for the movement of personnel and supplies, while improved connectivity supports the everyday needs of communities in remote regions.
Important facts for examinations
- Organisation: Border Roads Organisation (BRO)
- Project: ARUNANK
- Raising Day: 24 October 2026
- Anniversary: 19th
- Established: 2008
- Location: Naharlagun, Arunachal Pradesh
- Key focus: Strategic border infrastructure and connectivity
Indian Air Force Plans Acquisition of 24 Special Utility Helicopters for VVIP Transport
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is planning to acquire 24 Special Utility Helicopters for the secure transportation of India’s highest constitutional dignitaries, including the President, Vice-President and Prime Minister. According to the supplied material, the proposal received clearance from the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, at a meeting in New Delhi.
The proposed acquisition is intended to provide a long-term replacement for the Mi-17-V5 helicopters currently used for VVIP transportation duties.
Estimated Cost and Potential Contenders
The project is expected to be worth approximately ₹10,000 crore. The supplied information identifies Airbus, with its H225M/H-725 platform, and a US offering associated with Lockheed Martin as potential contenders for the contract.
The final selection and procurement details would depend on the subsequent acquisition process.
Specialised Operational Requirements
Helicopters used for VVIP transportation must meet demanding operational and security requirements. The proposed fleet is intended to be configured specifically for these responsibilities.
The acquisition reflects the IAF’s effort to establish a dedicated, long-term capability for transporting senior national leaders on domestic missions.
Significance
A specialised helicopter fleet can support secure and reliable transportation for the country’s highest constitutional authorities. Replacing an existing fleet also forms part of the broader effort to maintain operational readiness and meet evolving transportation requirements.
Review Questions
- The 11th edition of Exercise GARUDA SHAKTI 2026 is being conducted between
which two countries?
A) India and Malaysia
B) India and Indonesia
C) India and Singapore
D) India and Thailand
Answer: B) India and Indonesia - Which Indian Army unit is participating in Exercise GARUDA SHAKTI 2026?
A) Gorkha Rifles
B) Rajput Regiment
C) Parachute Regiment (Special Forces)
D) Assam Rifles
Answer: C) Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) - Yard 1283, named Srishti, is which type of vessel?
A) Guided-missile destroyer
B) Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel
C) Aircraft carrier
D) Submarine rescue vessel
Answer: B) Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel - Which shipyard launched the Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel Srishti on 27
October 2026?
A) Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
B) Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers
C) Goa Shipyard Limited
D) Cochin Shipyard Limited
Answer: C) Goa Shipyard Limited
Q5. The 33rd edition of SIMBEX-2026 was conducted between the Indian Navy and
which navy?
A) Royal Malaysian Navy
B) Republic of Singapore Navy
C) Royal Australian Navy
D) Indonesian Navy
Answer: B) Republic of Singapore Navy - Which Singaporean naval vessel participated in SIMBEX-2026?
A) RSS Supreme
B) RSS Formidable
C) RSS Independence
D) RSS Valiant
Answer: A) RSS Supreme - Project ARUNANK is associated with which organisation?
A) Indian Coast Guard
B) Border Roads Organisation
C) Defence Research and Development Organisation
D) Military Engineer Services
Answer: B) Border Roads Organisation - According to the supplied article, how many Special Utility Helicopters does the
Indian Air Force plan to procure for VVIP transportation?
A) 12
B) 18
C) 24
D) 36
Answer: C) 24 - Indian Coast Guard Formed On
A. August 18, 1978
B. September 18, 1978
C. March 18, 1976
D. April 18, 1976
ANSWER: A - ‘MBT Bhishma’ Is The Name Of :
A. Fighter aircraft
B. Tank
C. Armoured vehicles
D. Infantry regiments
ANSWER: B - Barak Is A
A. Surface-to-air Missile
B. Surface-to-Surface Missile
C. Air-to-air Missile
D. Surface-to-Sea Missile
ANSWER: A - “Ordnance Factory Day” in India Is Observed On
A. 14 March
B. 15 March
C. 16 March
D. 18 March
ANSWER: D - INS Valsura Located At
A. Jamnagar, Gujrat
B. Mumbai, M.H
C. Kochi, Kerala
D. A & NC
ANSWER: A - Exercise Maitree Conducted B/w India &
A. Thailand
B. Nepal
C. Bangladesh
D. Bhutan
ANSWER: A - Infantry School of Indian Army Is At
A. Mhow
B. Bhopal
C. Gwalior
D. Jammu
ANSWER: A - Officers Training Academy Is At
A. Chennai
B. Bhopal
C. Gaya
D. Both A & C
ANSWER: D - Northern Army Command Headquarters Is in
A. Jaipur
B. Udhampur
C. Pune
D. Lucknow
ANSWER: B - DF-41 ICBM Is A Missile Of
A. India
B. Russia
C. China
D. North Korea
ANSWER: C - The IAI Heron UAV Developed By
A. USA
B. South Korea
C. Israel
D. China
ANSWER: C - Which Is Not The Commissioned Ranks In The Army Service?
A. Brigadier
B. Colonel
C. General
D. Commander
ANSWER: D
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