Defence Current Affairs 17 June 2026

In Defence Current Affairs for 17 June 2026, we will see the latest national and international current affairs news. These important current affairs will be...

In Defence Current Affairs for 17 June 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 17 June 2026

India witnessed several important developments in defence, youth empowerment, healthcare outreach, science and technology, and military modernization during June 2026. These initiatives highlight the country’s continued efforts to strengthen national security, enhance public welfare, and accelerate technological advancement.

Successful Test of Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the flight test of the Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) on 15 June 2026 from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast. The missile successfully achieved all mission objectives during the trial.

Data collected by tracking systems deployed by the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur confirmed the missile’s performance. The LRLACM is a completely indigenous system developed through collaboration between DRDO laboratories and Indian industry partners. The Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), Bengaluru, served as the lead laboratory for the project.

Senior DRDO officials, along with representatives from the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force, witnessed the successful launch, marking another milestone in India’s self-reliance in advanced defence technologies.

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Ministry of Defence Expands NCC Network

In a major initiative aimed at strengthening youth development, the Ministry of Defence approved the establishment of two new independent National Cadet Corps (NCC) State Directorates in Andhra Pradesh and Jharkhand. With this addition, the total number of NCC State Directorates has increased from 17 to 19.

The new directorates are expected to improve administrative efficiency, training quality, and coordination with educational institutions. They will also help expand opportunities for young people by providing better infrastructure and support systems for NCC activities.

Founded in 1948 with only 20,000 cadets, the NCC has grown into the world’s largest uniformed youth organization, currently enrolling more than 20 lakh cadets. Between 2014 and 2025, the organization added nearly six lakh cadets and expanded its presence to over 750 districts across India.

The decision aligns with the vision of empowering India’s youth and preparing them to become responsible and capable citizens contributing to national development.

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Operation DRISHTI Brings Advanced Eye Care to Ranchi

Under the humanitarian initiative “Operation DRISHTI,” a specialized ophthalmology team from the Indian Army and Indian Air Force launched a Mega Advanced Surgical Eye Camp at Military Hospital Namkum in Ranchi.

The camp, organized from 15 to 19 June 2026, aims to provide free advanced eye surgeries to more than 200 patients, helping restore vision and improve their quality of life. To facilitate the mission, sophisticated medical equipment was transported to Ranchi using Indian Air Force aircraft.

Director General Armed Forces Medical Services, Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, emphasized that the initiative reflects the armed forces’ commitment not only to national defence but also to social welfare and humanitarian service.

Operation DRISHTI has already conducted eight successful advanced eye-care camps in remote regions including Leh, Ladakh, Lakshadweep, Bhuj, Kutch, and Bagdogra, bringing specialized treatment to underserved communities.

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India’s Bioeconomy Records Remarkable Growth

India’s biotechnology sector has witnessed extraordinary expansion over the past twelve years. Speaking at a conference on “12 Years of Transformative Growth in Science, Technology and Innovation,” Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that India’s bioeconomy has grown from approximately 10 billion US dollars in 2014 to more than 190 billion US dollars in 2026.

The government has set an ambitious target of reaching a 300-billion-dollar bioeconomy by 2030. The Minister emphasized that science and technology are increasingly impacting the daily lives of citizens and have become central to India’s development strategy.

India has also significantly strengthened its weather forecasting infrastructure. The number of weather radars has increased from 17 in 2014 to nearly 50 today, with another 50 planned under Mission Mausam. Improvements in lightning detection, rainfall monitoring, and forecasting systems have further enhanced disaster preparedness.

Looking ahead, India plans to establish the Bharatiya Antariksh Station by 2035 and achieve a crewed lunar landing by 2040, demonstrating its growing ambitions in space exploration.

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Indian Navy Retires Sea King MK-42B Helicopters

The Indian Navy formally retired the Sea King MK-42B helicopter fleet, bringing an end to the distinguished service of one of its most iconic aviation platforms. The retirement also marks the closure of Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 330, popularly known as the “Harpoons.”

The final ceremonial flight was conducted from INS Shikra in Mumbai. Although the MK-42B variant has been retired, other versions of the Sea King helicopter will continue serving in the Navy.

Often called the “Flying Frigates,” these helicopters played a vital role in anti-submarine warfare, anti-ship missions, surveillance, and search-and-rescue operations. INAS 330 was commissioned on 17 April 1971 at INS Garuda, Kochi, and participated extensively in the 1971 Indo-Pak War.

A significant milestone occurred on 26 July 1971 when a Sea King helicopter became the first multi-role helicopter to land on INS Vikrant. During its 55 years of service, the squadron earned 22 Nausena Medals, reflecting its exceptional operational record and contribution to maritime security.

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Indian Army Introduces New Uniform Regulations

The Indian Army unveiled a comprehensive new dress code through the Army Uniforms-2026 Pamphlet, a 174-page document representing the first major revision of uniform regulations in eight years.

The updated guidelines cover ceremonial attire, winter uniforms, formal dress, grooming standards, and dress provisions for women officers. One of the notable changes is the introduction of the indigenous Bandi jacket as approved formal civil attire for Army officers.

The revised regulations also remove several colonial-era expressions from official terminology, including the word “Royal.” Additionally, the carrying of ceremonial swords has been made optional for Reviewing Officers during parades, although designated personnel may continue to carry them during major events such as Republic Day celebrations.

Another significant reform is the planned replacement of the jersey-based winter uniform, known as Dress 3A, with the modern Battle Jacket by June 2029. These changes reflect the Army’s efforts to modernize its appearance while embracing indigenous traditions and contemporary operational requirements.

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10 Firms In Race For Rs 30,000 Crore Defence Drone Deal

  • In the race for 87 Medium-Altitude Long-Range, Endurance unmanned aerial vehicles deal, around 10 bids have been received from Indian private and public sector firms.
  • Around 10 bids have been received from Indian public and private sector firms by the Defence Ministry for the over Rs 30,000 crore project to buy 87 UAVs for the Indian Air Force.The firms that have participated in the project include Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited, Ad Defence Systems Limited, Tata Advanced Systems Limited, Larsen and Toubro, and Raphe mPhibr Ltd.Valued at over Rs 30,000 crore, the project will reduce reliance on foreign defence equipment.
  • The drones will come equipped with advanced surveillance and combat features, including real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.Officials also revealed that plans are in place to integrate indigenous missile systems with these drones.
  • The armed forces have finalised the specifications for the drones through a comprehensive scientific study, highlighting the growing need for effective surveillance along the country’s borders with both Pakistan and China. Until now, Indian forces have heavily relied on foreign suppliers like the United States and Israel for their drone requirements.
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Review Questions

  1. DRDO successfully tested the Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM)
    from which location on 15 June 2026?
    A. Pokhran, Rajasthan
    B. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha
    C. Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh
    D. Chandipur, West Bengal
    Answer: B
  2. Which DRDO laboratory served as the nodal laboratory for the development of
    the Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM)?
    A. Defence Research Laboratory, Tezpur
    B. Research Centre Imarat, Hyderabad
    C. Aeronautical Development Establishment, Bengaluru
    D. Defence Electronics Research Laboratory, Hyderabad
    Answer: C
  3. With the creation of new NCC State Directorates in Andhra Pradesh and
    Jharkhand, the total number of NCC State Directorates has increased to:
    A. 17
    B. 18
    C. 19
    D. 20
    Answer: C
  4. Operation DRISHTI, conducted at Military Hospital Namkum in Ranchi, is
    primarily related to:
    A. Cardiac surgeries
    B. Eye care and vision restoration
    C. Cancer treatment
    D. Orthopedic treatment
    Answer: B
  5. According to Dr. Jitendra Singh, India’s bioeconomy has grown from about 10
    billion US dollars in 2014 to over how much in 2026?
    A. 100 billion US dollars
    B. 150 billion US dollars
    C. 190 billion US dollars
    D. 250 billion US dollars
    Answer: C
  6. Which helicopter fleet was officially retired by the Indian Navy in June 2026?
    A. Chetak
    B. ALH Dhruv
    C. Kamov Ka-31
    D. Sea King MK-42B
    Answer: D
  7. Under the Army Uniforms-2026 Pamphlet, which indigenous attire has been
    introduced as formal civil dress for Indian Army officers?
    A. Jodhpuri Suit
    B. Kurta-Pajama
    C. Bandi Jacket
    D. Achkan
    Answer: C
  8. Operation Cactus, conducted in 1988, aimed to protect the President of which
    country?
    A. Maldives
    B. Sri Lanka
    C. Mauritius
    D. Seychelles
    ANSWER: A
  9. Operation Rajeev, carried out in 1987, targeted the capture of which post in
    Siachen?
    A. Kargil
    B. Dras
    C. Qaid
    D. Batalik
    ANSWER: C
  10. UDHR Stands For
    A. Universal Declaration of Human Rights
    B. Universal Declaration of Human Riot
    C. Universal Declared of Human Rights
    D. None of the above
    ANSWER: A
  11. Which one of the following statements is/are correct regarding BRICS? 1. The official theme for India’s 2026 BRICS Chairship is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”. 2. The New Development Bank is one of the initiatives of BRICS.
    Choose the correct answer using the codes given below:
    A. 1 only
    B. 2 only
    C. Both 1 and 2
    D. Neither 1 nor 2
    ANSWER: C
  12. World Economic Forum Hq Is In
    A. Geneva, Switzerland
    B. Lausanne, Switzerland
    C. The Hague, The Netherlands
    D. Gland, Switzerland
    ANSWER: A
  13. Which Is Not An Asian Country?
    A. Singapore
    B. Brunei
    C. UAE
    D. Peru
    ANSWER: D
  14. GPMG Stands For
    A. General Purple Machine Gun
    B. General Purpose Machine Gun
    C. General Purpose Machine Gum
    D. None
    ANSWER: B
  15. ‘Ex Zapad’ Conducted B/W India &
    A. Qatar
    B. Russia
    C. UAE
    D. Maldives
    ANSWER: B
  16. Padma Vibhushan Award Was Instituted on
    A. 2nd January 1954
    B. 2nd January 1955
    C. 2nd January 1956
    D. 2nd January 1957
    ANSWER: A
  17. Hq Of Department of Space Is In
    A. New Delhi
    B. Bengaluru
    C. Kochi
    D. Kolkata
    ANSWER: B
  18. CAIR Stands For
    A. Centre for Artificial Intelligence & Robotics
    B. Centre for Artificial Intelligent & Robotics
    C. Centre for Artillery Intelligence & Robotics
    D. Centre form Artificial Intelligence & Robotics
    ANSWER: A
  19. “An Odyssey in War and Peace” Book Written By
    A. Shashi Tharoor
    B. SHF Manekshaw
    C. Hew Strachan
    D. Lt Gen J.F.R. Jacob
    ANSWER: D
  20. With reference to the Project 15B warships, consider the following
    statements: 1. They are equipped with BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and long-range
    Surface-to-Air Missiles. 2. ‘INS Surat’ was the first-ever ship of Project 15B Destroyers. 3. Project 15B warships are completely indigenous.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    A. 1 only
    B. 1 and 2 only
    C. 3 only
    D. 2 and 3 only
    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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