In Monthly Defence Current Affairs for August 2025, 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.
Monthly Defence Current Affairs August 2025
INS Himgiri Delivered To Indian Navy
- A major milestone in achieving self-reliance in warship design and construction, Himgiri (Yard 3022), the third ship of Nilgiri Class (Project 17A) and the first of the class built at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), was delivered to the Indian Navy.
- Project 17A frigates are versatile multi-mission platforms, designed to address current and future challenges in the maritime domain.
- Himgiri is a reincarnation of the erstwhile INS Himgiri, a Leander-class frigate, that was decommissioned on 06 May 2005 after 30 years of glorious service to the nation.
- These ships are configured with Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion plants, comprising a diesel engine and gas turbine, that drives a Controllable Pitch Propeller (CPP) on each shaft, and a state-of-the-art Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS).
- With an indigenous content of 75%, the project has involved over 200 MSMEs at GRSE and has enabled generation of employment for approx. 4,000 personnel directly and more than 10,000 personnel indirectly.
Indian Army Signs ₹223.95 Crore Deal
- The Indian Army has signed a ₹223.95 crore contract with M/s Axiscades Aerospace and Technologies Private Limited for the procurement of 212 advanced 50 Ton Tank Transporter Trailers.
- The contract, signed on 1 August 2025 under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category, supports the ‘Aatmnirbhar Bharat’ initiative and aims to boost indigenisation in defence manufacturing.
- These next-generation trailers feature hydraulic and pneumatic loading ramps along with steerable and liftable axles. These capabilities will enable the swift and efficient transport of tanks and other armoured vehicles over challenging terrain, enhancing the operational mobility of the Indian Army.
Shri Raj Kumar Arora Takes Over as CGDA
- Shri Raj Kumar Arora took over as the Controller General of Defence Accounts on August 01, 2025. The 1990-batch Indian Defence Accounts Service officer has vast experience in the areas of financial policy, accounting, audit, budget, procurement, and personnel matters.
- The officer has held prestigious assignments in the Government as Additional Secretary in UPSC, Finance Manager (Air) in the Acquisition Wing of Ministry of Defence, and Director in Ministry of Finance.
- Defence Accounts Department (DAD) functions under the administrative control of Ministry of Defence and is headed by Controller General of Defence Accounts.
- The mandate given to the Department is broadly audit, financial advice, payment and accounting of all charges pertaining to Armed Forces, including bills for supply and services rendered and for constructions and repair works, pay and allowances, pension etc. of Defence Personnel and Civilians
- Founded: 1 October 1951
- Headquarters: New Delhi
- Parent department: Ministry of Defence (Finance)
Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh Takes Over As VCOAS
- Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh assumed the appointment of the Vice Chief of the Army Staff on 31 July 2025. The General Officer was tenanting the appointment of Director General Operational Logistics & Strategic Movement at Army Headquarters.
- The General Officer was commissioned into 4th Battalion, The Parachute regiment (Special Forces) in December 1987.
- He is an alumnus of La’ Martiniere College, Lucknow, Lucknow University and the prestigious Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. The General Officer has served in ‘OP PAWAN’, ‘OP MEGHDOOT’, ‘OP ORCHID’ and has had multiple tenures in ‘OP RAKSHAK’.
Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan Takes Over As VCONS
- Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, AVSM, NM assumed charge as the 47th Vice Chief of the Naval Staff (VCNS) on 01 Aug 2025.
- An alumnus of the 71st course National Defence Academy, Pune, Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 01 Jan 1988.At sea, he has served onboard various frontline warships, including as the commissioning crew of the Guided Missile Destroyer INS Mysore, INS Nishank and pre-commissioning crew of Coast Guard OPV CGS Sangram. He also served as the executive officer of INS Mysore.
- He has commanded the coast guard ship C-05, the missile vessels INS Vibhuti and INS Nashak, the missile corvette INS Kuthar and the guided missile frigate INS Sahyadri as the commissioning commanding officer.
- In February 2020, he took over as the flag officer commanding the eastern fleet, and led numerous operational deployments and exercises during a time of heightened maritime activity, post events at Galwan.
- A graduate of the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, Naval War College in Goa and the prestigious National Defence College in New Delhi, Vatsayan has also excelled in key strategic and policy-oriented staff roles.
Russia Creates World’s First Anti-drone Rifle Simulator
- Students of the Southern Federal University (SFU) have developed the world’s first training platform simulator that simulates working with anti-drone rifles and drone detection systems.
- This is a virtual environment where one can practice in real-world drone warfare scenarios. In the program, one can practice the skills of using different models of anti–drone guns (for example, “Pars” and “Harpy”), detectors (such as “Bulat” version 3) and drones – from FPV devices to DJI and military “Leleki-100”.
- The program helps to develop practical skills: to use an anti-drone rifle correctly, to work with detectors, to make quick decisions in stressful situations. There is also a theoretical part — a section with educational materials and tests. The tests include not only questions from books, but also videos with real scenarios where you need to choose the right action, representatives of the development team said.
- Military expert Yuri Lyamin believes that the simulator is useful at the initial stage of training, as it allows you to study the basic algorithms of actions, characteristics of equipment and save money.
SSS Defence Supplies Indigenous ‘Suppressors’ For SAKO TRG-42 Sniper Rifles
- Bangalore-based SSS Defence has become the first Indian company to supply indigenous suppressors for the Sako TRG sniper rifles to the Indian Army, marking a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in advanced defence technologies.
- The Sako TRG is a high-precision bolt-action sniper rifle, originally designed and manufactured by the Finnish firm SAKO, chambered typically in .338 Lapua Magnum, known for its long-range accuracy and effectiveness at distances up to 1,500 meters.
- Apart from suppressors, the company has designed and developed two sniper rifles—the Viper (chambered in 7.62x51mm) and the Saber (chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum)—both intended for use by Indian special forces and armed forces at large.
Dvipa Defence Is Developing Extended Ugram Series
- Dvipa Defence, a Hyderabad-based company, is developing an extended series of indigenous firearms centred on the Ugram assault rifle chambered in 7.62 mm x 51 mm calibre.
- This project is a major component of India’s strategic push for defence self-reliance under initiatives like “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat.”
- The Ugram rifle, developed in close collaboration with DRDO’s Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) Pune, was designed explicitly to meet the Indian Army’s General Staff Qualitative Requirements (GSQR) for modern small arms.
- Weighing less than 4 kilograms with a 20-round magazine, it features a long-stroke gas piston system to enhance reliability and ease of maintenance under demanding conditions.
India In Talks With Philippines For Developing Submarine Infrastructure
- India is in talks with the Philippines for development of submarine infrastructure, the Indian foreign ministry said on Tuesday, at a media briefing during Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos’s visit to India.
- The discussions signify a deepening partnership between the two nations against the backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions and evolving security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.
- The initiative to develop submarine infrastructure is part of a broader agenda to strengthen maritime security cooperation, reflecting India’s expanding role as a security partner in Southeast Asia.
- Notably, the two countries sealed a pact involving the BrahMos missile system, symbolising a milestone in bilateral defence collaboration and technology transfer.
- For India, advancing defence ties with the Philippines complements its Act East policy and underscores its commitment to being a reliable security partner for ASEAN countries.
DAC Clears Projects Worth Rs 67,000 Crore
- The defence ministry has given a go ahead for procurements worth ₹67,000 crore, including indigenous medium altitude long endurance drones and autonomous surface vessels that will see several Indian companies competing for orders.
- The Defence Acquisition Council, led by defence minister Rajnath Singh, approved several proposals on Tuesday, including procurement of mountain radars and upgrades to infantry combat vehicles and air defence systems.
- The procurement of indigenous MALE drones is likely to see a strong competition between Indian companies that are investing into UAV technology, including Adani Defence, Solar Defence & Aerospace Ltd and HAL.
Army Chief Inaugurates ‘Agnishodh’
- Inauguration of Agnishodh – Indian Army Research Cell (IARC)
- COAS, General Upendra Dwivedi, inaugurated Agnishodh at IIT Madras. The research cell is designed to bridge academic research with real-time military operations.
- It supports the Army’s modernization under the Five Pillars of Transformation framework.
- Vision for Self-Reliance and Technological Dominance
- General Dwivedi stressed India’s preparedness for fifth-generation warfare, focusing on:Non-contact warfare Psychological dominance
- Advanced technology
- Vision for Self-Reliance and Technological Dominance
- He reiterated the Indian Army’s commitment to “Swadeshikaran Se Sashaktikaran” (Empowerment through Indigenization).Mentioned alignment with key national tech missions:
- INDIAai Chip-to-Startup
- Project QuILA
- Academic and Technological Collaborations
- AGNISHODH is built on successful collaborations with:
- IIT Delhi
- IIT Kanpur
- IISc Bengaluru
- Aims to convert academic excellence into battlefield innovation, aiding the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047.Focus Areas of Agnishodh
- Key emerging domains include:
- Additive manufacturing
- Cybersecurity
- Quantum computing
- Wireless communication
- Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
DRDO Awards ₹135 Crore Contract To Astra Microwave
- DRDO of India has awarded a significant contract worth ₹135 crore to Astra Microwave Products Limited (AMPL) for the upgrade of its Ground-Based Radar Systems.
- This contract highlights DRDO’s ongoing efforts to enhance the country’s defence capabilities through modernization of critical radar infrastructure.
- The order is also important for Astra Microwave’s growth, as it adds to its healthy order backlog and reaffirms its position as a leading supplier for defence radar and electronic warfare systems in India.
- Astra Microwave, a key player in defence electronics specializing in advanced RF and microwave technologies, will execute this upgrade project over an 18-month period.
MoD Approves ₹30,000 Crore Indigenous UAV Deal
- The Defence Acquisition Council led by Rajnath Singh, has recently approved a major ₹30,000 crore contract to procure 87 Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) drones for the Indian armed forces, marking a pivotal step in unlocking and scaling the indigenous UAV manufacturing ecosystem in India.
- Crucially, the contract will be split between the two lowest bidders in a 64:36 ratio, ensuring that two separate manufacturing lines are established. This approach provides flexibility for ramping up production swiftly as well as supports future export potential.
- The drones procured will serve diverse roles including reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and precision missile strikes.
Hope Mars Analog Mission
- Two Indian analogue astronauts, Rahul Mogalapalli and Yaman Akot, successfully completed a 10-day mission inside the Himalayan Outpost for Planetary Exploration (HOPE) habitat located in the remote region of Tso Kar, about 150 kilometres from Leh, Ladakh.
- This mission was designed to simulate the stresses and routines of lunar and Martian exploration, marking a significant milestone in India’s human spaceflight ambitions.
- The HOPE mission, developed by Bengaluru-based Protoplanet in collaboration with ISRO’s Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC), features an 8-meter habitat module named Phobos and a 5-meter utility module named Deimos after Mars’ moons.
- The habitat was engineered to replicate the difficulties of extended space travel. The extreme environmental conditions of the Ladakh region, with temperature fluctuating from 35°C to -25°C, provided an ideal analogue setting for Mars-like conditions.
- This mission is foundational for India’s forthcoming Gaganyaan program, which aims to send astronauts into space and eventually to the Moon by 2040.
- Data and protocols developed during this mission, including mission planning, health monitoring, and adaptation to environmental extremes, are directly applicable to future crewed space missions.
MoD to Establish Services Selection Board in Guwahati
- The Ministry of Defence has informed that the proposal of the Government of Assam seeking to establish a Services Selection Board (SSB) Centre at Guwahati is under active consideration.
- This has been informed through a communiqué written to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on 6th August, 2025.
- It may be noted that with an aim to provide a vital platform for the selection of officers in the Armed Forces and inspire the local youth to pursue careers in the Defence Forces, Sarma wrote a letter to the Ministry of Defence on 20th February, 2025.
- Sarma stated that the candidates from the North Eastern Region find it challenging to access existing SSB Centres, as they are located in the Northern, Central and Southern Indian regions.
PM Launches ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ Mission
- In a significant announcement that will have far reaching consequences for the future of the armed forces and defence of the nation, PM Narendra Modi announced a new mission that will identify and induct future weapons over the next decade to provide a comprehensive national security shield.
- It is learnt to be an advanced, multi-tiered air defence system, aimed at creating a nationwide security shield to thwart enemy attacks across domains and strengthen the country’s deterrent and offensive capabilities.
- “In the next 10 years, by 2035, I want to expand, strengthen and modernise this national security shield,” he said, adding that the country will launch the Sudarshan Chakra mission. “Taking inspiration from Shri Krishna, we have chosen the path of his Sudarshan Chakra,” he said.
Delivery of Yard 3027 (IKSHAK)
- Ikshak (Yard 3027), the third of four Survey Vessel (Large) ships, 102nd ship steered by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau, built at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata and overseen by Warship Overseeing Team (Kolkata) was delivered to the Indian Navy on 14 Aug 25.
- The first ship of the class, INS Sandhayak was commissioned on 03 Feb 24 and second ship, INS Nirdeshak, on 18 Dec 24. The contract for four Survey Vessel (Large) was signed on 30 Oct 18.The ship will also collect oceanographic and geophysical data for defence and civil applications. With a displacement of about 3400 tons and overall length of 110 meters
- Ikshak has an indigenous content of over 80% by cost. The delivery of Ikshak is a reassurance on impetus of the Government of India and the Indian Navy towards ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.
Former Army Chief Gen Naravane Launches Book
- Former Army Chief Gen Manoj Naravane recently launched his book, “The Cantonment Conspiracy,” at RIIM Business School in Pune, Maharashtra.
- During his address on Sunday, he emphasised the significance of defence spending, comparing it to an “insurance premium” that prevents wars and ensures national security.
- Gen Narvane also said, “The defence of a country cannot be outsourced. It has to be done by the country itself. You can outsource the security of a campus, but not of a nation. You cannot say, ‘China, please come and guard us.’ It is the government’s primary responsibility to secure the country.”
Dvipa Defence’s Indigenous U-19 SMG
- Hyderabad-based Dvipa Defence India Private Limited has developed an indigenous submachine gun (SMG) known as the U-19, chambered in the popular 9×19mm calibre. This weapon is poised to soon enter trials with India’s paramilitary forces, marking an important step in advancing India’s self-reliance in small arms manufacturing.
- The U-19 SMG is designed with a focus on ergonomics, compactness, and operational efficiency, tailored to meet the demanding needs of paramilitary and law enforcement personnel engaged in close-quarter combat scenarios.
- The U-19 SMG benefits from Dvipa Defence’s growing expertise in small arms innovation, complementing their other indigenous products like the Ugram assault rifle series.
Centre Approves ₹62,000-crore Order
- In a boost to indigenous fighter jet development efforts, the Centre has cleared an order for 97 additional LCA Mk1a aircraft that are to be made by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL).
- The order, valued at ₹62,000 crore, will take the total number of LCA Mk1A fighters in the air force to 180, adding to an earlier order of 83 that is in the process of being delivered.
- The latest version of the fighter jets will be manufactured at two production lines in Bengaluru and Nashik. The plan is to ramp up production capacity to deliver 24 jets on an annual basis in the coming years.
- The LCA Mark 1A plane has more advanced avionics and radars than the initial 40 LCAs being supplied to the Air Force.
- The indigenous content in the new LCA Mark1As is going to be more than 65 per cent.
- The programme has been the harbinger of the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives of the nation. More importantly, it is a flag bearer of India’s self-reliance in the aerospace sector.
- The HAL is also set to bag deals for buying over 200 LCA Mark 2s and a similar number of fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft.
Himachal Pradesh Cadet as first-ever Hindu Chaplain
- The UK’s Royal Navy has appointed its first-ever Hindu chaplain, the first non-Christian to be appointed for the official role of offering spiritual support to fellow naval officers based on the tenets of Hinduism.
- Bhanu Attri, originally from Himachal Pradesh, took over his new role last week after undergoing a somewhat different course from other Navy cadets.
- He went through six weeks of officer instruction, including sea survival with four weeks at sea aboard the warship HMS Iron Duke, and three weeks focused on the role of a military chaplain.
Rudra, Bhairava, Divyastra and Shaktibaan
- The Indian Army has entered the first phase of a comprehensive transformation aimed at integrating traditional strengths with modern warfare capabilities. Announced by Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi on Vijay Diwas (July 26), the changes are part of the army’s ‘Decade of Transformation’ (2023 to 2032) and are being implemented as India marks 79 years of independence.
- The transformation includes the creation of new formations such as all-arms Rudra Brigades, Bhairav Battalions, Divyastra Batteries, and Shaktibaan units. These developments aim to enhance the army’s adaptability and firepower, using advanced technologies such as drones, loitering munitions, indigenous missile systems, and upgraded air defence capabilities.
- The Army’s Air Defence (AAD) branch is also strengthening its capabilities with the deployment of two new regiments of Akash Prime surface-to-air missiles, specifically designed for high-altitude areas along the border with China. These systems are capable of intercepting aircraft, helicopters, and drones up to 25 km away.
- By the end of August, the Indian Army is expected to raise five Bhairav Battalions. These lethal special forces units serve as a bridge between elite special forces and conventional infantry. While similar in nature to special forces, Bhairav battalions focus on less strategic tasks, freeing up elite units for high-priority, deep-penetration missions.
- Efforts are underway to equip all infantry battalions with drone platoons by the end of August. These platoons are intended to improve surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike capabilities in real time, reflecting a shift in battlefield dynamics.
- Drone integration at the infantry level
- Efforts are underway to equip all infantry battalions with drone platoons by the end of August. These platoons are intended to improve surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike capabilities in real time, reflecting a shift in battlefield dynamics.
- Rudra Brigades to integrate multiple combat arms
- Two Indian Army brigades have already been converted into Rudra Brigades. These all-arms formations combine infantry, artillery, and armoured units into a single operational structure. Designed for flexible deployment and increased combat effectiveness, Rudra Brigades represent a structural shift toward integrated warfighting teams.
- Divyastra and Shaktibaan units for advanced artillery warfare
- The artillery arm is also undergoing changes. At least five regiments will include Divyastra Batteries, which integrate traditional guns with drones and loitering munitions for hybrid precision attacks. According to an officer, “The primary goal of Divyastra batteries is to enhance the artillery’s firepower and operational effectiveness by enabling deep-strike capabilities, real-time target tracking, and precision engagement of both static and moving threats.”
Successful Test-firing of ‘Agni 5’
- Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile ‘Agni 5’ was successfully test-fired from the ITR, Chandipur in Odisha on August 20, 2025. The launch validated all operational and technical parameters. It was carried out under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command.
- This missile can bring almost the entire continent of Asia, including the northernmost parts of China, and some regions of Europe within striking range.
- The test comes less than four months after a military conflict between India and Pakistan, though officials did not speak of a link with that.
- The missile test-fired on Wednesday is a variant of the Agni-5 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that can reach around 7,000 kilometres.
- The missile is developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and it was reported back in June that DRDO is planning an upgrade, expanding its range to 7,500 kilometres.
- Last year, India carried out the maiden flight test of the Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV)-capable Agni-5 missile. This technology helps the weapon system to tackle multiple nuclear warheads.
- India test-fired Agni-5 missile in March last year as well.
- The Agni 1 to 4 missiles have ranges from 700 km to 3,500 km and they have already been deployed.
- Last month, India successfully test-fired nuclear-capable short-range ballistic missiles Prithvi-II and Agni-I.
- The Prithvi-II missile has a range of around 350 kms and it is capable of carrying a payload of up to 500 kgs. It can carry both conventional as well as nuclear warheads.
CCS Clears Procurement of 6 AEW&C Aircraft
- The GOI has accorded a major boost to the IAF airborne surveillance and command capabilities with the approval of the AWACS India project, which envisages the procurement and development of six Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft based on the Airbus A321 platform.
- The project, with an estimated cost of ₹19,000 crore (approximately $2.3 billion), will be spearheaded by the DRDO in partnership with Airbus and select Indian public and private sector firms.
- The choice of the Airbus A321 as the base aircraft marks a strategic shift from earlier projects involving smaller Embraer platforms.
- With significantly greater range, payload capacity, and endurance, the A321-based AEW&C aircraft will serve as a next-generation command and control hub.
India May Be First To Fly France’s Rafale F4.1
- France is positioning India to be the launch customer for its upgraded Rafale fighter jet, a move that could significantly deepen Indo-French defence ties and redefine India’s air power capabilities.
- Dassault Aviation is preparing to offer an enhanced Rafale variant incorporating next-generation radar systems—likely an improved AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) with greater detection range and electronic warfare resilience.
- The cockpit suite is also expected to receive a major overhaul, introducing advanced sensor fusion interfaces, AI-assisted decision-making aids, and improved pilot situational awareness systems designed for modern high-intensity combat.
- When positioned against China’s frontline Chengdu J-20 stealth fighter, the upgraded Rafale presents a distinct balance of proven versatility and technological modernisation.
Conclusion of SLINEX-2025
- The 12th edition of the India – Sri Lanka bilateral naval exercise SLINEX-25 successfully concluded at Colombo on 18 Aug 2025, reaffirming shared commitment and maritime security.
- The current edition saw the participation of Indian naval ships INS Jyoti and INS Rana from the Eastern Fleet and Sri Lankan Naval Ships SLNS Gajabahu and SLNS Vijayabahu (both Advance Offshore Patrol Vessels).
- The exercise was conducted in two phases, the harbour phase at Colombo from 14 to 16 Aug 25 and the sea phase from 17 to 18 Aug 25.
INS Khanderi To Receive DRDO’s Indigenous AIP
- The Indian Navy is set to take a significant technological leap in underwater warfare capabilities with the integration of the DRDO indigenously developed Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system into INS Khanderi, the second submarine of the Kalvari-class fleet.
- The AIP system, developed in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and Thermax, had initially been earmarked for INS Kalvari, the lead submarine in the class. However, due to delays in integration and alignment of refit schedules, the Navy has now shifted the focus toward fitting the system onboard INS Khanderi.
- This will be followed by harbour and sea trials aimed at validating the operational efficiency, safety, and endurance of the upgraded vessel. If the schedule holds, initial sea trials are anticipated between March and April 2027, with the complete refit and testing cycle concluding by July 2027.
- In December 2024, the Ministry of Defence formalised this collaboration by signing a ₹1,990 crore contract with MDL for the AIP plug’s construction and integration across submarines.
Sudarshan Chakra Air Defence System Completes Successful Maiden Test
- India has carried out the first firing tests of a new Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) that consists of missiles and high-powered lasers to take down enemy air threats.
- The multi-layered system is designed to defeat threats ranging from incoming aircraft and missiles to drones using different weapons that can be engaged simultaneously.
- The new system will be part of the Sudarshan Chakra project announced by PM Narendra Modi earlier this month from the Red Fort and will in the future integrate long-range interceptors capable of taking down ballistic missiles as well.
Anish Dayal Singh, PM Modi’s New Deputy NSA
- The central government has appointed Anish Dayal Singh, a retired IPS officer and former Director General of the CRPF, as Deputy National Security Advisor (NSA) to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In his new role, 60-year-old Singh will report directly to NSA Ajit Doval.
- Anish Dayal Singh is a 1988-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the Manipur cadre. He was serving as the Director General of the CRPF since January 1, 2024.
- Singh was born in 1964 in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj. After being selected for the Indian Police Service in 1988, he completed training as a police officer at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy located in Hyderabad.
India To Make Advanced Jet Engines With France
- India is now finally getting set to kick off the collaboration with France to co-develop a new powerful jet engine for its indigenous 5-gen stealth fighter and other futuristic platforms, which will further bolster the already expansive strategic partnership between the two countries.
- DRDO will soon move the cabinet committee on security for the approval of the ambitious project with French major Safran, with 100% transfer of technology, to jointly design, develop, test, qualify, certify and produce the new 120 kilonewton engines in India.
- Defence minister Rajnath Singh, “We have taken steps forward to build our fifth-generation fighter aircraft. We have also moved towards manufacturing the aircraft’s engine in India itself. We are about to start engine manufacturing work in India with the French company Safran,” Singh said.
- India’s inability to manufacture an aero-engine, with the requisite thrust-to-weight ratio, has for long been a major hurdle for indigenous fighter jet programmes.
- The almost two-year delay in delivery of 99 GE-F404 turbofan engines by US firm General Electric, which HAL contracted for Rs 5,375 crore in Aug 2021, as well as weapons and radar integration issues, for instance, are the main reasons for the major slowdown in production of Tejas Mark-1A fighters.
- Hindustan Aeronautics and GE are also yet to seal the final deal for the co-production of the GE-F414 engines in the 98 kilonewton thrust class in India, with 80% of transfer of technology for around $1.5 billion, to power the planned Tejas Mark-2 variant.
- “The project for jet engine with Safran will have full IP (intellectual property) ownership & licencing control by India. It will create an entire ecosystem for the manufacture of aero-engines in India, with complete supply chain development,” an official said.
- This comes after the defence ministry in May finally approved a new “programme execution model” for prototype development of the 25-tonne AMCA, with greater private sector participation.
- As per existing timelines, the AMCA with the requisite thrust-to-weight ratio, advanced sensor fusion and stealth features like an internal weapons bay and “serpentine air-intake” will be ready for production only by 2035.
- IAF plans to induct seven squadrons (126 jets) of the expensive AMCA, with the first two squadrons powered by the American GE-F414 engines and the next five with 120 kilonewton engines.
Exercise Maitree 2025
- The 14th edition of a joint exercise between the militaries of India and Thailand is set to take place in Meghalaya’s Umroi from September 1 to 14, the Indian Army said on Saturday.
- Exercise Maitree is designed to further sharpen the operational capabilities of both the armies in undertaking joint company-level counter-terrorism operations in semi-urban terrain, it said.
- The exercise is designed to further sharpen the operational capabilities of both armies in undertaking joint company-level counter-terrorism operations in semi-urban terrain under the United Nations’ mandate — reflecting the shared commitment towards global peace and security.
Navy Ships ‘Udaygiri’, ‘Himgiri’ To Be Commissioned
- The Navy is all set to augment its combat readiness and strengthen India’s ability to safeguard its maritime interests with naval ships ‘Udaygiri’ and ‘Himgiri’, which are part of Project 17A stealth frigates slated to be simultaneously commissioned at Visakhapatnam on Tuesday.
- The first ship of the P17A (Nilgiri Class) stealth frigates, ‘Nilgiri’, was commissioned at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January.
- The second warship, ‘Udaygiri’, built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), was delivered to the Navy on July 1.
- ‘Himgiri’ is the first of P17A ships being constructed by GRSE, Kolkata.
Semiconductor Planned in UPEIDA
- After BrahMos missiles, semiconductor infrared detectors, a highly sophisticated set of devices used for thermal imaging in darkness, could soon be manufactured at the defence corridor’s Lucknow node in Sarojininagar.
- For this, Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) is going to allot 10 hectares of land to Dehradun-based DRDO’s Instruments Research and Development Establishment without any cost for the manufacture of multi-sensor surveillance systems as well as opto-electrical equipment.
- According to the authority, almost 5,000 such devices are imported every year from Israel and France, and the indigenous facility will help the country strengthen its defence systems.
- The Uttar Pradesh govt, after holding a cabinet meeting in July, had cleared the proposal of handing over the 10 hectares of land to the premier defence institute.
- UPEIDA in the past has already given a commitment to handing over 80 hectares of land within the Sarojininagar node of the defence corridor to the defence ministry. Similarly, land will be awarded to the premier institute that is governed by DRDO.
- UPEIDA has already managed to aggregate more than 160 hectares of land in the defence node being planned on the Lucknow-Unnao border and has initiated the process of developing the land bank and awarding it.
India Readies $1 Billion GE Deal
- India is finalising a $1 billion agreement with U.S. aerospace major General Electric (GE) for the supply of 113 F404-IN20 fighter jet engines, which will power the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) TEJAS MK-1A.
- The new GE-404 engine deal will ensure steady supply to HAL which had earlier signed a contract for 99 engines for the first 83 TEJAS jets ordered by the Indian Air Force. With this follow-on order, HAL is expected to receive a total of 212 GE-404 engines.
- The deal, currently in advanced negotiation stages between GE and HAL is expected to be signed by next month. This comes in the wake of the CCS clearing the acquisition of 97 additional TEJAS MK-1A fighters earlier in August, at a cost of ₹66,000 crore, adding to the 83 aircraft ordered previously.
- To support these production requirements, HAL had earlier signed a $716 million agreement in 2021 with GE for 99 F404 engines, deliveries for which are underway after initial supply chain hurdles.
MoD Signs MoU with QCI
- Reaffirming its commitment to “Quality in Service – Dignity for Veterans”, the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare, MoD, signed a MoU with the Quality Council of India (QCI) on August 26 2025, New Delhi to strengthen delivery of pension, healthcare, resettlement, and welfare services for over 63 lakh veterans and their dependents.
- The initiative will also strengthen healthcare delivery, expand re-employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for veterans, and reinforce institutional frameworks of State and District Sainik Boards.
‘Exercise Bright Star 2025’
- More than 700 personnel from the Armed Forces & Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff are set to participate in the Multilateral Exercise ‘BRIGHT STAR 2025’ from August 28 to September 10, 2025.
- The upcoming edition will feature a comprehensive spectrum of military activities, including:
- Live Firing by the three Services showcasing the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force.
- Command Post Exercise to enhance joint planning, decision-making and operational coordination.Short Training Exercises by all three Services focusing on varied aspects of modern warfare.Subject Matter Expert Interactions on multiple domains of contemporary military operations.
- Participation of the Indian Armed Forces in this exercise underscores India’s commitment to regional peace, stability, and security while enhancing Jointness, interoperability and cooperation with friendly foreign countries.
- Exercise Bright Star is a multilateral exercise hosted by Egypt in conjunction with the US since 1980 and is amongst the largest Tri-Service multilateral exercises in the region.
- The exercise is held biennially, with the last edition having taken place in 2023, which witnessed the participation of a host of nations including India along with troops.
Mahindra Group Wins Airbus Contract
- Mahindra Group has won a contract from European plane maker Airbus SE to manufacture its H125 helicopter’s fuselage. Mahindra Aerostructures Pvt. had won the contract to make another variant of Airbus helicopters’ fuselage back in April.
- The fuselage is the main body of an aircraft to which wings, tail, and landing gears are attached.
- As per the contract, industrialisation will begin immediately at Mahindra Aerostructures’ facility in Bengaluru. The company is aiming to deliver first fuselage by 2027.
- Airbus’s H125 is famous for functioning at higher altitude and with extreme weather conditions, which makes a suitable helicopter to use in air ambulance services, inspection, and utility operations.
- The variant holds the record for highest altitude landing and take-off performed on Mount Everest at 8,848 metres.
- Airbus claims the aircraft outclasses all other sing-engine helicopters in the segment. The H125 has completed three crore flight hours.
- Airbus H125 has max cruise speed of 143 knots. A knot is equivalent to one nautical mile per hour. It has the max endurance of 4 hours 57 minutes.
India’s First end-to-end OSAT Pilot Line Facility
- Union Minister of Electronics and Information Technology inaugurated one of India’s first end-to-end Semiconductor OSAT Pilot Line Facility of CG Power at Sanand, Gujarat.
- It provides end-to-end solutions for chip assembly, packaging, testing and post-test services, covering both traditional and advanced packaging technologies.This marks a major step in strengthening India’s semiconductor capabilities and supporting the country’s goal of becoming self-reliant while also serving global markets.
- Backed by central and state government support, CG Semi is investing over ₹7,600 crore (~USD 870 million) over five years to develop two state-of-the-art facilities (G1 and G2) in Sanand, Gujarat.
- The G1 facility, inaugurated today, will operate at a peak capacity of approximately 0.5 million units per day. It is equipped to handle end-to-end chip assembly, packaging, testing, and post-test services.
- CG Semi is a joint venture between CG Power and Industrial Solutions Ltd. (Murugappa Group), Renesas Electronics Corporation (a global semiconductor player), and Stars Microelectronics (a Thailand-based OSAT & EMS player).
IAF Exploring To Manufacture Rampage Missile
- The Indian Air Force (IAF) is actively considering the possibility of locally producing the Israeli-origin Rampage air-to-ground missiles under the Government of India’s “Make in India” initiative.
- The Rampage missile, also known in the IAF as the High Speed Low Drag-Mark-2, is a supersonic, precision-guided weapon with a range of approximately 250 kilometres and a 150 kg warhead, capable of destroying high-value, well-protected targets.
- It has already been integrated with frontline fighter aircraft such as the Su-30MKI, Jaguar, MiG-29, and Rafale, enhancing the combat capabilities of these fleets.
Multiple Choice Questions of DCA
- Indian Naval Ship Satpura arrived which country to participate in SIMBEX-25?
A. Malaysia
B. Thailand
C. Singapore
D. Indonesia
ANSWER: C - Which ship of the Nilgiri Class (Project 17A) was recently delivered to the
Indian Navy?
A. Udaygiri (Yard 3021)
B. Himgiri (Yard 3022)
C. Taragiri (Yard 3020)
D. Vindhyagiri (Yard 3023)
ANSWER: B - Who has recently taken over as the Controller General of Defence Accounts?
A. Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh
B. Raj Kumar Arora
C. Ajay Bhatt
D. Rakesh Sharma
ANSWER: B - Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan has assumed the role of which position?
A. Chief of Naval Staff
B. Director General Naval Operations
C. 47th Vice Chief of the Naval Staff
D. Chief of Integrated Defence Staff
ANSWER: C - Who has recently taken over as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff?
A. Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh
B. Raj Kumar Arora
C. Ajay Bhatt
D. Rakesh Sharma
ANSWER: A - What is the calibre of the Ugram assault rifle being developed by Dvipa
Defence?
A. 5.56 mm x 45 mm
B. 7.62 mm x 39 mm
C. 7.62 mm x 51 mm
D. 6.8 mm x 43 mm
ANSWER: C - Which Indian company has become the first to supply indigenous suppressors
for the Sako TRG sniper rifles to the Indian Army?
A. DRDO
B. Dvipa Defence
C. BEL
D. SSS Defence
ANSWER: D - India is in discussions with which country for developing submarine
infrastructure?
A. Vietnam
B. Thailand
C. Philippines
D. Malaysia
ANSWER: C - What is the primary objective of the newly inaugurated ‘Agnishodh’ Indian
Army Research Cell?
A. Train officers in cybersecurity
B. Develop new submarine designs
C. Bridge academic research with real-time military operations
D. Manufacture advanced drones
ANSWER: C - The Defence Ministry has issued an RFI to replace which helicopters?
A. Dhruv and Rudra
B. Chetak and Cheetah
C. Apache and Chinook
D. Mi-17 and Mi-26
ANSWER: B - The DAC recently approved a ₹30,000 crore contract for procuring 87 drones of
which category for the Indian armed forces?
A. High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE)
B. Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE)
C. Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR)
D. Micro Tactical UAVs (MTUAV)
ANSWER: B - In the 2025 Global Firepower Index, where did India rank among the world’s
most powerful militaries?
A. 2nd
B. 4th
C. 6th
D. 8th
ANSWER: B - Ikshak (Yard 3027), recently delivered to the Indian Navy, was built at which
shipyard?
A. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL)
B. Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL)
C. Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE)
D. Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL)
ANSWER: C - What is the name of the mission announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi
after Operation Sindoor?
A. Mission Shakti Vayu
B. Mission Sudarshan Chakra
C. Mission Trishul
D. Mission Varuna
ANSWER: B - INS Rana and INS Jyoti recently arrived at Colombo to participate in which
edition of SLINEX?
A. 10th edition
B. 11th edition
C. 12th edition
D. 13th edition
ANSWER: C - Hyderabad-based Dvipa Defence India Private Limited has developed which
indigenous submachine gun?
A. INSAS-21
B. U-19
C. AK-203
D. MP-9
ANSWER: B - By which year does India aim to develop Sudarshan Chakra Mission?
A. 2028
B. 2030
C. 2033
D. 2035
ANSWER: D - What does the structure of Rudra Brigades include?
A. Only Infantry units
B. Infantry and Naval units
C. Infantry, Artillery, and Armoured units
D. Artillery and Air Defence units
ANSWER: C - What is the primary goal of Divyastra Batteries in the artillery arm?
A. To enhance logistic mobility
B. To improve training and doctrine
C. To enable deep-strike, real-time tracking, and precision engagement
D. To support naval operations
ANSWER: C - How many artillery regiments are set to include Divyastra Batteries?
A. Three
B. Five
C. Seven
D. Ten
ANSWER: B - From where was the ‘Agni-5’ successfully test-fired on August 20, 2025?
A. Pokhran Test Range
B. Wheeler Island
C. ITR, Chandipur in Odisha
D. Balasore Test Range
ANSWER: C - How many Tejas Mark 1A fighter jets has India approved for purchase under
the ₹62,000 crore deal in 2025?
A. 83
B. 97
C. 105
D. 120
ANSWER: B - Who has been appointed as the new Deputy NSA to Prime Minister Narendra
Modi?
A. Ajit Doval
B. Rajiv Jain
C. Anish Dayal Singh
D. Rakesh Asthana
ANSWER: C - India’s upcoming joint project with France to manufacture powerful jet
engines involves which French company?
A. Airbus
B. Dassault Aviation
C. Safran
D. Thales
ANSWER: C - Naval ships Udaygiri and Himgiri are part of which project?
A. Project 75I
B. Project 17A
C. Project 28
D. Project 15B
ANSWER: B - Which organization successfully conducted the first Integrated Air Drop Test
(IADT-01) for the Gaganyaan Mission?
A. DRDO
B. ISRO
C. Indian Navy
D. Indian Air Force
ANSWER: B - Which country is collaborating with India to jointly develop a 120-kn jet engine
for the AMCA?
A. France
B. Russia
C. United States
D. United Kingdom
ANSWER: A - What is the top speed achieved by the Agni-5 IRBM during its test?
A. Mach 24
B. Mach 15
C. Mach 10
D. Mach 5
ANSWER: A - What is the value of the agreement India is finalizing with General Electric for
F404-IN20 jet engines?
A. $500 million
B. $716 million
C. $1 billion
D. $2 billion
ANSWER: C - Which country hosts the multilateral military exercise ‘Bright Star’ along with
the US?
A. India
B. Australia
C. Egypt
D. Japan
ANSWER: C
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