Monthly Defence Current Affairs November 2025

In Monthly Defence Current Affairs for November 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 November 2025

Lt Gen Virendra Vats assumes charge as 35^th DG NCC

• Lieutenant General Virendra Vats has assumed charge as the 35th Director General of the National Cadet Corps. He has taken over as Director General National Cadet Corps from Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh.
• Commissioned into the 19 KUMAON Regiment of the Indian Army on 17 Dec 1988, the General Officer is an alumnus of the NDA, Khadakwasla, IMA, Dehradun, Defence Services Staff College , Wellington, College of Defence Management, Secunderabad and the National Defence College, New Delhi.
• NCC is the National Cadet Corps, a voluntary youth organization in India that provides basic military training and leadership development to school and college students on a voluntary basis. It is a Tri-Services Organisation comprising Army, Navy, and Air Force wings, with the motto “Unity and Discipline“. Cadets receive training in areas like small arms and drill, and while they don’t have a liability for active military service, their achievements in the NCC are given preference during selections for the armed forces. 

Army Conducts ‘Drone Kavach’ Exercise

• The Army’s ‘Spear Corps’ under the Eastern Command conducted a ‘Drone Kavach’ exercise in forward areas of eastern Arunachal Pradesh from September 25-28, a defence official said.
• The exercise showcased the Army’s combat readiness for next generation of drone warfare, besides validating state-of-the-art drone technologies, he said.
• The four-day exercise saw Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) personnel deployed in the forward areas.
• The ‘Drone Kavach’ exercise represents a significant step in the Army’s commitment towards modernisation, while striving for technology absorption to achieve operational excellence.

India’s ‘Dhvani’ Hypersonic Missile

• India is preparing to field a next-generation hypersonic missile, a major leap forward in its rapidly growing defence technology ecosystem. DRDO’s “Dhvani” Hypersonic Glide Vehicle (HGV), set for a full-scale test by the end of 2025.
• HGVs are known for their ability to manoeuvre at speeds exceeding Mach 5, which makes them highly difficult for current missile defence systems to intercept.
• Unlike traditional cruise missiles, Dhvani is designed as a Hypersonic Glide Vehicle (HGV). A powerful booster stage will propel the vehicle to high altitude, after which it will detach and begin a high-speed glide.
• One of the greatest challenges of hypersonic flight is withstanding extreme temperatures caused by air friction at thousands of kilometres per hour.
• Engineers at DRDO have trialled advanced thermal barrier coatings based on cutting-edge ceramics.
• These have been tailored to sustain prolonged exposure to heat regimes exceeding 2,000°C, ensuring structural integrity and flight stability during sustained hypersonic cruise.

BRO Scripts History In Ladakh

• The Border Roads Organisation’s ‘Project Himank‘ has once again created history by surpassing its own Guinness World Record for the highest motorable road.
• The team successfully reached Mig La Pass at an altitude of 19,400 feet on Likaru-Mig La-Fukche road alignment in Leh district, overtaking the previous record set at Umling La (19,024 feet), the BRO said.
• The milestone, it said, was achieved when the BRO team led by Chief Engineer of Project Himank Brig Vishal Srivastava reached Mig La Pass, proudly hoisting the National and BRO flags at this unparalleled height.

Tata Group to Build Airbus H125 Helicopters

• Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) will build India’s first private-sector helicopter Final Assembly Line to build the Airbus H125 helicopters. The helicopter production facility will be located in Vemagal in Karnataka.
• As a move to unlock the full potential of the rotorcraft market in South Asia, Tata Group plans to manufacture ‘Made in India’ H125 helicopter that will help develop new civil and para-public market segments.
• This facility also aims to meet the Indian armed force’s requirement for a light multi-role helicopter, especially on the icy heights of the country’s Himalayan frontiers.
• The company also plans to manufacture the military version of Airbus H125M that would be developed with high levels of indigenised components and technologies.
• The delivery of the first ‘Made in India’ H125 is expected in early 2027. Through the Karnataka plant, the helicopter will also be made available for exports in the South Asian region as well.

Goodluck India Signs Tripartite Agreement

• Special steel maker Goodluck India announced a tripartite agreement to jointly bid for defence research organisation DRDO’s advanced medium combat aircraft programme.
• It has signed the agreement with BrahMos Aerospace Thiruvananthapuram Ltd (BATL) and Axiscades Technologies, Goodluck India said in a statement.
• “Goodluck India has signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly bid for the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme,” it said.
• The AMCA programme seeks to deliver a cutting-edge fifth-generation stealth aircraft featuring advanced avionics, super-cruise capability, internal weapons bays, and electronic warfare systems, the company said.
• In a separate statement, Goodluck India said its subsidiary Goodluck Defence & Aerospace Limited (Goodluck Defence) has received an industrial license under the Indian Arms Act, 1959, to manufacture medium-calibre artillery shells of various sizes.
• Goodluck India currently has six manufacturing facilities with a total capacity of 5 lakh metric tonnes per annum spread across two states – Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat.

Nigeria Close To Securing Deal For Four Prachand

• Nigeria is close to finalising a deal for four HAL Prachand Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) under a soft credit arrangement extended by India.
• This marks a significant breakthrough for India’s indigenous combat helicopter program in Africa, where Nigeria has been modernising its counter-insurgency and close air support capabilities against Boko Haram and other militant groups.
• The financing arrangement reduces Nigeria’s upfront cost burden, making the Prachand gunship a viable choice compared to Western platforms.
• For India, the deal could be its first confirmed combat helicopter export to Africa, signalling a new chapter in defence relations with Abuja. The Prachand, proven in high-altitude warfare and equipped with advanced sensors, is suited to Nigeria’s diverse operational terrain, from desert zones in the north to riverine regions in the south.

India, UK Begin Mega Wargame in Indian Ocean

• The navies of India and the UK kick-started an eight-day mega wargame in the Western Indian Ocean in line with their focus to boost overall military ties.
• The UK’s Carrier Strike Group (CSG), led by HMS Prince of Wales aircraft carrier, has been deployed for the Exercise Konkan.
• The exercise is a reaffirmation of the shared commitment to ensuring secure, open and free seas and will exemplify the “comprehensive strategic partnership” outlined in the India-UK Vision 2035, the Indian Navy said.
• The exercise is aimed at increasing combined maritime and air capabilities between the UK and Indian navies on the high seas.

Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2025

• The fourth edition of India and Australia’s bilateral military exercise ‘AUSTRAHIND 2025’ will be held from October 13 to 26 at Irwin Barracks in Perth, Australia.
• The joint exercise aims “to further strengthen the operational capabilities of both the armies in undertaking joint Company level operations in urban and semi-urban terrain, under the United Nations mandate reflecting the shared commitment towards global peace and security.”
• The exercise was started in 2022 in Rajasthan and has since then become an annual event, which is conducted alternatively in India and Australia.

Exercise Cold Start

• For the First time after the Operation Sindoor, all three defence forces will get together to take part in the drone and counter-drone warfare drill codenamed Exercise Cold.
• The exercise will be held at military locations in Babina and Mhow in Central India and is being seen as an attempt to integrate the capabilities of the three forces in the domain.
• The drone and counter-drone drills involving the three forces are being carried out by the Integrated Defence Staff and will be witnessed by the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Anil Chauhan, on one of the four days of the exercise.

Andhra Pradesh Advances As Defence Manufacturing Hub

• Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) is set to establish a large-scale integrated weapons system and propellant manufacturing unit near Donakonda in Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh.
• The ₹1,200 crore project will significantly boost the state’s defence manufacturing capabilities and generate substantial employment, with 600 direct jobs and approximately 1,000 indirect opportunities.
• Senior BDL officials have recently inspected the proposed 1,400-acre site for the facility. The Andhra Pradesh government has agreed to allocate 1,346.67 acres for the project, with 317 acres sourced from existing state-owned land and the remainder to be acquired.
• A notable capability of the plant will be the manufacture of rocket motors capable of carrying payloads of up to 1,000 tons.
• This BDL project adds to Andhra Pradesh’s growing defence manufacturing portfolio. It follows the ₹2,400 crore investment by Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited, a Bharat Forge subsidiary, to establish a high-tech equipment manufacturing unit in Madakasira, Sri Sathya Sai district.

India-Russia Military Drills Indra-2025

• India and Russia commenced the Indra-2025 joint military exercises on October 6, 2025, at the Mahajan training ground in Rajasthan.
• This large-scale drill will continue until October 15 and aims to strengthen defence collaboration and operational coordination between the two armies, particularly in counterterrorism operations.
• The Russian Ministry of Defence outlined that the primary objective of Indra-2025 is to practice coordinated operations between Indian and Russian units aimed at combating international terrorism.
• This includes refining tactical approaches to counterterrorism missions and enhancing joint operational effectiveness in complex battle scenarios.
• India’s Defence Ministry stated that participation in Zapad-2025 further strengthens defence cooperation and camaraderie between the two countries, positioning it as a significant step in deepening military ties amidst evolving global security dynamics.

76^th Territorial Army Day

• Since then, the annual Territorial Army Day is observed on 9 October. The Territorial Army functions as a reserve force that supports the regular Indian Army, with volunteers trained to respond during national emergencies and assist in internal security operations.
• A notification issued on May 6 as per the Rule 33 of the Territorial Army Rules, 1948, the government of India has authorised the Army Chief to call every officer and enrolled personnel of the TA as needed, either for guard duties or for full embodiment to support and supplement the regular armed forces. At present, there are 32 Infantry Battalions of the Territorial Army.
• Recently, Malayalam actor Mohanlal, who was conferred with the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army in May 2009, was conferred with the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Card for his outstanding contribution to society and his continued association with the Armed Forces.
• Other prominent personalities who are part of the TA include Bollywood actor Nana Patekar, Indian cricketers Kapil Dev, Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni, Iconic Indian shooter Abhinav Bindra, and politicians Anurag Thakur and Sachin Pilot.

Indian Army Deploys SAKSHAM System

• The Army has fast-tracked procurement of an indigenous counter-drone grid, with both soft and hard kill options, in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor during which several Pakistani drone swarms were sent across the border.
• The Situational Awareness for Kinetic Soft and Hard Kill Assets Management (SAKSHAM) system has been developed in collaboration with Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) and will operate over the secure Army Data Network (ADN) to provide an integrated drone awareness picture to all formations in real time.
• Officials said the fully indigenous platform reflects the army’s commitment to the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative in defence technology. With approval under the Fast Track Procurement (FTP) route, SAKSHAM is slated for field induction within a year. “This is about more than drones – it’s about autonomy, speed, and control of our battlespace,” a defence source added.
• Strategic Impact
• Once deployed, SAKSHAM will form the backbone of India’s Counter-UAS grid, offering commanders seamless situational awareness across land and air. It will integrate with existing air defence and surveillance systems, ensuring rapid response to drone threats in sensitive zones.

UK Signs £350 Million Defence Deal with India

• The United Kingdom signed a new £350 million defence deal with India that will support hundreds of jobs in Northern Ireland while supplying India, “a key strategic partner,” with air defence missiles and launchers, the UK government said.
• The contract is set to deliver UK-manufactured Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM) built in Belfast to the Indian Army, delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change in another significant boost for the UK defence industry.
• According to the UK government, the project secures over 700 jobs in Northern Ireland, as the air defence missiles and launchers to be manufactured for the Indian Army are the same as those currently being manufactured in Belfast for Ukraine.
• The UK CSG, currently on an eight-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific region known as Operation Highmast, linked up with the Indian Navy’s Carrier Strike Group, led by the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, to begin four days of complex maritime exercises involving ships, submarines, and aircraft from both forces, the UK government noted.

Major Rajprasad RS Gets Patent

• The Centre has granted a patent to the Indian Army’s ‘Vidyut Rakshak‘, an integrated generator monitoring, protection and control system, developed by Major Rajprasad RS.
• This indigenous innovation enables integrated monitoring, protection and control of multiple generators and power systems which are agnostic of type, make, rating or vintage, thereby optimising resources and enhancing operational efficiency.
• According to the patent certificate, the patent has been granted for a term of 20 years from June 13, 2023, in accordance with the provisions of the Patents Act, 1970.
• Earlier in June 2025, Indian Army Officer Major Rajprasad RS from the Corps of Engineers received the ‘NSG Counter IED Innovator Award’ .

Exercise AUSTRAHIND

• An Indian Army contingent comprising 120 personnel departed yesterday for Irwin Barracks, Perth, Australia, to participate in the fourth edition of the India- Australia joint military Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2025, scheduled to be conducted from 13th to 26th October 2025.
• The Indian Army contingent is being led by a Battalion of Gorkha Rifles along with troops from other arms and services.
• The annual Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2025 is aimed at enhancing military cooperation, improving interoperability and providing a platform for participating armies to exchange tactics, techniques and procedures in the domains of sub conventional warfare in urban/ semi urban terrain.
• Participation in Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2025 will further strengthen defence cooperation and foster camaraderie between Indian and Australian Army troops, thereby reinforcing the spirit of collaboration and mutual trust.

Inspector Bhawna Chaudhary becomes BSF air wing’s First Woman Flight Engineer

• The Border Security Force (BSF) air wing has got its first woman flight engineer in its over 50 years history following completion of a first in-house training capsule.
• Inspector Bhawna Chaudhary along with four male subordinate officers were recently awarded their flying badges by BSF director general Daljit Singh Chawdhary.
• The border force is tasked to operate the aviation unit of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) since 1969 and it caters to the operational requirements of all the paramilitary forces and special forces like the NSG and the NDRF.
• The about 3 lakh personnel strong BSF was raised in December 1965 and it is primarily tasked to guard Indian borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh apart from rendering a variety of duties in the internal security domain of the country.

DAC Clears ₹5,150 Cr ‘Dharashakti’ Integrated EW System

• The Dharashakthi Integrated Electronic Warfare (EW) system is engineered to provide the Indian Armed Forces with advanced capabilities in both communication (COM) and non-communication (Non-COM) electronic warfare.
• Its primary role is to intercept, monitor, and disrupt enemy electronic signals while ensuring secure military communications.
• Tailored for deployment in desert and plain terrains, Dharashakthi is optimised for regions such as the Samaghat and Shatrughat sectors. This makes it suitable for high-temperature, open-field operational theatres where visibility and range are critical.
• The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has formally sanctioned a large-scale production order for Dharashakthi valued at ₹5,150 crore. This approval marks a strategic investment in indigenous EW capability, supporting the government’s focus on self-reliance in defence technologies.

GAZA PEACE SUMMIT 2025

• The Gaza Peace Summit 2025, also known as the Sharm El Sheikh Summit, was held on October 13, 2025, in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. It was a significant diplomatic meeting aimed at advancing the peace process following the Gaza war that began in 2023. The summit was co-chaired by U.S. President Donald Trump and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. Around 30 countries participated, including key international organizations such as the Arab League, European Union, and the United Nations. However, representatives of Israel and Hamas—the main conflicting parties—were absent.
• The summit’s goals were to implement the first phase of the Gaza peace plan, focusing on ending hostilities, future governance of Gaza, security, and humanitarian aid. It followed a ceasefire agreement effective from October 10, 2025, negotiated after a period of intense conflict triggered by Hamas attacks on Israel in 2023 and mediated by the U.S. and Egypt. Significant outcomes included a joint peace agreement signed by leaders from Egypt, the U.S., Qatar, and Turkey, among others. The summit also addressed critical issues like the disarmament of Hamas, the governance of Gaza, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, and reconstruction funding estimated at $53 billion.
• The summit coincided with important humanitarian steps such as the release of Israeli hostages by Hamas and Israel freeing hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. The peace summit sought to establish a durable framework for regional stability and peace, although notable absences and ongoing challenges highlighted the fragility of the progress.
• The Sharm El Sheikh summit represents a major international effort to move towards ending the Gaza conflict and initiating a new chapter of peace and cooperation in the Middle East.

India Awards Zen Technologies $444,000 Contract

• India has awarded a significant contract to Zen Technologies Limited, a local firm, for the supply of advanced anti-drone systems valued at 37 million rupees (approximately $444,000).
• The counter-drone systems utilize a sophisticated combination of sensors, electronic warfare tactics, and kinetic interceptors to effectively neutralize incoming threats.
• The contract is expected to be fulfilled within a 12-month timeframe, enhancing India’s capabilities in countering unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which have increasingly been employed for surveillance, smuggling operations, and asymmetric warfare tactics.
• Moreover, as part of enhancing its defensive capabilities, the Indian Army is moving quickly to secure six AK-630 air defense guns from Advanced Weapons and Equipment India to bolster protection around regions previously affected by clashes, particularly with Pakistan.

National Security Guard ‘Black Cat’ commando hub in Ayodhya

• The government will establish a new regional hub of the National Security Guard (NSG) in Ayodhya, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced.
• The move marks a major expansion of the elite ‘Black Cat’ commando force, which handles counter-terror operations and high-risk security situations across the country.
• Speaking at the 41st Raising Day of the NSG in Delhi, Shah said the Ayodhya hub will be the sixth regional base for the force, after those in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Gandhinagar. The NSG also maintains a smaller task force in Jammu.“So far, five hubs of the NSG have been established in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad (Gandhinagar). In addition, a new hub is also going to be set up in Ayodhya. Here, the NSG personnel will be deployed and available round the clock,” Shah said.
• Raised in 1984, the NSG is widely regarded as a world-class, “zero-error” force capable of responding to any kind of terrorist threat with minimal delay. It draws personnel from both the Indian Army and the Central Armed Police Forces, and is tasked with counter-terrorism, anti-hijack operations, and VIP security.

IAF Successfully tests DRDO’s Military Combat Parachute System

• The Indian Air Force successfully tested the Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS) in a combat freefall jump from an altitude of 32,000 feet.
• The parachute, indigenously developed by DRDO, is the only system currently in operational use by the Indian armed forces capable of deployment above 25,000 feet.
• The MCPS was developed by DRDO laboratories – Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment, Agra and Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory, Bengaluru.
• It features several advanced tactical features like a lower rate of descent and superior steering capabilities, enabling paratroopers to safely exit aircraft, deploy parachutes at predetermined altitudes, navigate accurately, and land at designated zones.
• Further, the system has compatibility with Navigation with Indian Constellation, providing the freedom of use against any adversary of our choice and is not susceptible to interference/denial of service by outside parties/nations, the statement said.

India-Indonesia Maritime Exercise

• The Indian Navy hosted an Indo-Indonesian bilateral maritime exercise at Visakhapatnam from October 14-17, aimed at enhancing interoperability, strengthening mutual understanding and sharing best practices between the two navies.
• The participating units include INS Kavaratti, an anti-submarine warfare corvette of the Eastern Fleet under the aegis of Eastern Naval Command (ENC), and the Indonesian Navy Ship KRI John Lie, a corvette (with an integral helicopter), which arrived at Visakhapatnam to a warm welcome by the ENC.
• Exercise Samudra Shakti highlights the shared commitment of both nations towards maintaining stability and peace in the Indo-Pacific region.

41^st NSG Raising Day 2025

• NSG is Federal Contingency World Class Zero Error Force to deal with anti-terrorist activities in all its manifestation. The NSG is a Force specially equipped and trained to deal with specific situations and is therefore to be used only in exceptional circumstances to thwart serious acts of terrorism.
• Ethos:-The Ethos of the NSG is premised on the following:-Pursuit for excellence
• Lead from the front.Zero Error.
• Speed, surprise, stealth, precision and accuracy are its hall marks
• Vision:-A World Class Zero Error Force
• Mission:-Train, Equip and Keep in Readiness a Special Force Capable of Swiftly and Effectively Combating Terrorism to Live Up to its Motto ‘Sarvatra Sarvottam Suraksha’
• The Union Cabinet in 1984 took a decision to create a Federal Contingency Force comprising of personnel who are highly motivated, specially equipped and well trained to tackle the various manifestations of terrorism. In June 1984, a nucleus consisting of the Director General of NSG and other essential elements were sanctioned and steps were initiated to raise the Force. A bill for creation of this Organization was introduced in the parliament in August 1986 and it received the assent of the President on September 22, 1986 and the National Security Guard (NSG) formally came into being from that date.

PM Dedicates To The Nation Advanced Night Vision Factory

• Marking another step towards Aatmanirbharta in defence, PM Narendra Modi dedicated to the nation an Advanced Night Vision factory in Nimmaluru, Andhra Pradesh.
• The facility is among the multiple development projects worth around Rs 13,430 crore which the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for, inaugurated, and dedicated to the nation in Kurnool.
• Established by BEL at an investment of around Rs 360 crore, the facility has been created to meet the demands of Armed Forces as also for Export purposes for various electro-optical devices (Advanced Night Vision Devices), Infrared Seekers for various indigenously developed missiles and different types of drone guard systems for protection from rogue drones, UAV and other aerial threats.
• It has been constructed at Nimmaluru, Krishna District in 50.54 acres of land with a built-up area of 36,000 sqm.
• The facility will cater to the growing demands with flexible production lines and space that can accommodate future product lines and advanced manufacturing techniques. It will also generate employment over a period of 2 to 3 years.

INS Magdala Launched at Cochin Shipyard Limited

• The sixth vessel (Named as INS Magdala) in the series of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW SWC) was launched on Saturday at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi, the Ministry of Defence said.
• This ship is indigenously designed and built by Cochin Shipyard Limited. Delivery of the first ship is planned end Oct 2025. ASW SWCs will augment underwater domain awareness, Anti-Submarine Warfare and Mine Laying capabilities.
• Propelled by three Diesel Engine powered waterjets, these ships are equipped with role-defining sensors such as a Hull Mounted Sonar and Low Frequency Variable Depth Sonar (LFVDS), and firepower provided by state-of-the-art Torpedoes, Anti-Submarine Rockets, NSG-30 Gun and 12.7 mm SRCG.
• With an indigenous content of over 80%, the ship will provide the Indian Navy significant capabilities to secure our national maritime interests in the Indian Ocean Region.

Zorawar Light Tank Achieves Astonishing Strike Precision

• The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a major milestone with the successful test-firing of the indigenous NAG MK-2 Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) from the Zorawar light tank.
• Conducted on 17 October 2025, the test marked a defining moment in India’s efforts to enhance its light armour capabilities through indigenous innovation and advanced weapon integration.​
• The test demonstrated the missile’s outstanding precision, achieving direct hits on target with remarkable top-attack accuracy. The NAG MK-2, an advanced evolution of DRDO’s proven Nag missile series, features a fire-and-forget seeker, superior penetration capability, and an effective engagement envelope extending from 4 to 10 kilometres.
• Weighing under 25 tons, it achieves exceptional mobility at high altitudes, particularly in Eastern Ladakh, where heavier tanks such as the T-72 and T-90 face limitations.
• The platform integrates a John Cockerill 3000-series turret featuring a 105 mm high-pressure gun with stabilised day-night sights, complemented by the turret-mounted NAG MK-2 ATGM, creating a balanced mix of direct-fire and stand-off precision capability.​
• The Zorawar is a light tank developed for the Indian Army. The tank is designed and developed by the Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment, with Larsen & Toubro being the development cum production partner. Wikipedia
• Designed: 2022-2024
• Crew: 3
• Engine: Cummins VTA903E-T760; 760 hp diesel engine
• Main armament: Cockerill 105 mm high-pressure rifled gun in customized Cockerill 3105 Turret
• Manufacturer: Larsen & Toubro
• Mass: 25 tonnes
• Maximum speed: 70 km/h (43 mph); 35–40 km/h (22–25 mph) cross country

Rs 10,000 cr Missiles Deal for ‘Sudarshan’ S-400

• Having successfully used it to bring down 6-7 Pakistan fighter and spy planes in Operation Sindoor, India is looking to buy a large number of missiles worth around Rs 10,000 crore from Russia for its S-400 air defence system.
• The S-400 air defence system of the Indian Air Force brought down five to six Pakistani fighter aircraft and one spy plane at a distance of over 300 Km deep inside Pakistan during the four-day conflict and has been termed as a game-changer by the Indian Air Force.
• The Indian side is also looking to add more S-400 squadrons to its inventory and is asking Russia to supply the remaining two squadrons of the missile systems, of which three have already been inducted and operationalised.
• The two sides have also discussed Indian’s plans to induct more S-400 and S-500 air defence systems at various levels. The Russian military establishment is producing a large amount of equipment for its forces in the fight against Ukraine.

Neeraj Conferred with Honorary Rank

• India’s Olympic gold medalist and former World Champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra expressed his delight with being given the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army, calling it “more than an honour” and a “responsibility towards the country”.
• Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh formally conferred the gleaming insignia of Honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army upon Neeraj during the pipping ceremony in South Block, New Delhi.
• Interacting with Lt. Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra and his family members, Singh described him as an epitome of perseverance, patriotism and the Indian spirit of striving for excellence, as per a release from the Ministry of Defence.
• Enrolled in the Indian Army in 2016, Lt. Col (Hony) Chopra has served with The Rajputana Rifles of the Indian Army. Born on 24 December 1997 in Khandra village, Panipat district, Haryana, he has brought immense pride to the Nation and the Armed Forces through his remarkable accomplishments in international athletics.

Indian Army to Buy 2,408 Nag Mark 2 ATGM

• In what would be a major success for indigenous weapon systems, the Indian Army is set to place a major order for 2.408 Nag Mark 2 anti-tank guided missiles with 107 NAMICA tracked vehicles.
• The Nag Mark-2, along with the NAMICA 2 vehicle, is an advanced version of the previous system and includes a large number of changes and improvements suggested by the users.
• The missiles are produced by Bharat Dynamics Limited. The field evaluation trials of the indigenously developed Nag Mark 2, ATGM, which is a third-generation Anti-Tank Fire-and-Forget Guided Missile, were successfully conducted in January this year at Pokhran Field Range in the presence of senior officers of the Indian Army.

JIMEX-25

• The Indian Navy’s indigenously built Shivalik-class guided missile stealth frigate INS Sahyadri took part in the Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JAIMEX-25) held from October 16 to 18, 2025, and reached Yokosuka Port in Japan on October 21 for the harbour phase.
  • These exercises helped improve coordination between the two navies and strengthened cooperation under the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership, set up in 2014 to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
  • Commissioned in 2012, INS Sahyadri showcases India’s progress in indigenous defence technology and supports the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India). The stealth frigate has taken part in several important operational deployments and joint exercises with other countries.

CSL Delivers First of Eight Warship ‘Mahe’

• Cochin Shipyard Limited delivered ‘Mahe’, the first of the eight ASW SWCs (Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft) to the Indian Navy.
• Mahe, the 78m-long warship, is the largest Indian Naval warship propelled by a Diesel Engine-Waterjet combination. It has been designed for underwater surveillance, search and rescue operations, and Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO).
• The warship is capable of undertaking ASW operations in coastal waters, along with advanced mine-laying capabilities.
• “Mahe’s delivery is yet another milestone in the Indian Navy’s quest for indigenous shipbuilding and upholding the Government’s vision of “Aatma Nirbhar Bharat” with over 90% indigenous content.”.

Defence Ministry Okays Rs 79,000 Crore Buys

• The defence ministry has given the go-ahead for procurement worth ₹79,000 crore, including four large amphibious warships that are to be made in India.
• The Rajnath Singh led Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) gave the go-ahead for new anti-tank missiles, high mobility vehicles and a long-range drone that can pair up with manned fighter jets, among other procurements.
• For the Indian Army, Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) was accorded for the procurement of Nag Missile System (Tracked) Mk-II (NAMIS), Ground Based Mobile ELINT System (GBMES) and High Mobility Vehicles (HMVs) with Material Handling Crane.
• The procurement of NAMIS (Tracked) will enhance the Indian Army’s capability of neutralising enemy’s combat vehicles, bunkers & other field fortifications, whereas GBMES will provide round-the-clock Electronic Intelligence of enemy emitters.
• For the Indian Navy, AoN was granted for the procurement of Landing Platform Docks (LPD), 30mm Naval Surface Gun (NSG), Advanced Light Weight Torpedoes (ALWT), Electro Optical Infra-Red Search and Track System and Smart Ammunition for 76mm Super Rapid Gun Mount.
• Singh also released a new Defence Procurement Manual (DPM), which has streamlined the revenue procurement process by making it less cumbersome, lowering penalties for delayed deliveries and has given a level playing field to private sector players, especially when it comes to supplying ammunition.

ITBP Raising Day 2025

• ITBP Raising Day is observed every year on 24th October to commemorate the formation of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) — a specialized force that guards the Indo-China border across some of the most challenging terrains on earth.
• The ITBP Raising Day 2025 marks 63 years of dedicated service, celebrating the courage, discipline, and resilience of personnel who protect India’s borders at altitudes often exceeding 14,000 feet.
• ITBP stands for Indo-Tibetan Border Police, one of India’s five Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). It plays a crucial role in border security, disaster relief, and counter-insurgency operations in the Himalayan region.
• The ITBP guards the 3,488-km-long Indo-China border extending from Ladakh (Kashmir) to Arunachal Pradesh, facing extreme weather conditions and temperatures that can drop below -25°C.
• Initially, the ITBP started with just four battalions, but over time, it has grown into a force of nearly 85,000 personnel, organized into 60+ battalions. In 1992, ITBP was restructured under the ITBP Force Act, defining its modern role as India’s first line of defence along the Himalayan frontier.

Exercise Sudarshan Vayu Sanchar

• Reflecting the national vision of JAI – Jointness, Atmanirbharta, and Innovation, the Southern Command has showcased the strength of unified air defence through a joint exercise Sudarshan Vayu Sanchar as part of Exercise Trishul in the Desert Sector, demonstrating how seamless coordination across services is redefining India’s air defence architecture.
• The exercise brought together Army Air Defence units, Indian Air Force elements, and naval surveillance inputs into a single, integrated control and reporting network, ensuring real-time threat detection, identification, and engagement.
• This unified structure validated joint airspace management, enhanced command-and-control integration. It demonstrated how a layered defence grid can operate at speed, precision, and resilience in high-tempo combat environments.

Project Arunank (BRO) Celebrates 18^th Raising Day

• Project Arunank of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) celebrated its 18th Raising Day at Naharlagun, Arunachal Pradesh on October 24, 2025, marking 17 years of dedicated service in one of India’s most challenging terrains.
• Since its raising in 2008, the Project has constructed & maintained over 696 km of roads and 1.18 km of major bridges, providing vital connectivity to remote valleys & forward areas of Arunachal Pradesh while meeting the operational requirements of the Armed Forces.
• One of the Project’s landmark achievements was the completion of the 278 km Hapoli-Sarli-Huri Road, blacktopped for the first time since Independence, connecting one of the remotest regions of Kurung Kumey district.
• Project Arunank has also adopted innovative and sustainable technologies such as Steel Slag, Cut-and-Cover Tunnels, Geo Cells, Plastic Sheets, GGBFS Concrete and Gabion Walls, enhancing the durability and environmental sustainability of road infrastructure in the region.

ICG Launches Two Fast Patrol Vessels

• The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) marked a significant milestone in strengthening India’s maritime security with the launch of two advanced Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) ICG Ship Ajit and ICGS Aparajit at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL).
• These vessels are the seventh and eighth in a series of eight indigenously built FPVs being constructed by GSL for the ICG, marking an important step forward in enhancing the nation’s coastal surveillance and response capabilities.
• Measuring 52 metres in length and displacing 320 tonnes, these vessels are equipped with Controllable Pitch Propellers (CPP) the first of their kind in this class in India, offering superior manoeuvrability and propulsion efficiency.
• They are capable of multi-mission roles including fisheries protection, coastal patrol, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy and search & rescue operations, particularly around India’s island territories and Exclusive Economic Zone.

Infantry Day – 79^th Shaurya Diwas

• The Indian Army on 27 Oct 2025 commemorated Infantry Day, also known as Shaurya Diwas, with a solemn Wreath Laying Ceremony at the National War Memorial, New Delhi, paying tribute to the valour, sacrifice and indomitable spirit of the Infantry.
• Observed on 27 October every year, Infantry Day holds a special place in the Nation’s history. On this day in 1947, Infantrymen of the Indian Army were the first troops to land at Srinagar airport.
• The subsequent operations by these troops are an act of extraordinary courage that repelled the Pakistan-backed tribal invasion and safeguarded India’s territorial integrity. The occasion stands as a lasting reminder of the Infantry’s steadfast dedication and unmatched valour.

SJ-100 Regional Jet In India By 2028

• HAL and Russia’s Public Joint Stock Company United Aircraft Corporation (PJSC-UAC) have signed a MoU to jointly produce the civil commuter aircraft SJ-100 in India.
• The agreement was formalised on 27 October 2025 in Moscow, marking a significant step in Indo–Russian industrial collaboration within the civil aviation sector.
• The MoU was signed by Shri Prabhat Ranjan on behalf of HAL and Mr Oleg Bogomolov representing PJSC-UAC. The signing took place in the presence of Dr D. K. Sunil, Chairman and Managing Director of HAL, and Mr Vadim Badekha, Director General of PJSC-UAC.
• The ceremony highlighted the deepening partnership between the two aerospace industries, traditionally rooted in defence cooperation and now expanding into civil aviation.
• Under the proposed framework, the two companies will work towards the licensed production and potential localisation of the SJ-100 regional jet, positioning it as a modern short-haul commuter aircraft suitable for Indian and export markets.
• The collaboration will also focus on supply chain development, component manufacturing, and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities in India.

President Murmu Takes Historic Rafale Sortie

• President Droupadi Murmu, Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, undertook a sortie in a Rafale fighter aircraft from the Ambala Air Force Base in Haryana.
• The flight marks a historic milestone as it is the first time an Indian President has flown in the Rafale, which forms a key part of the Indian Air Force’s frontline combat fleet.
• The Ambala base, home to the Indian Air Force’s 17 Squadron “Golden Arrows,” was central to Operation Sindoor, when India launched precision strikes across the border to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack five months ago.
• The President was assisted into the Rafale cockpit by Flight Lieutenant Shivangi Singh, the first woman pilot to fly the aircraft. After the sortie, the President posed for photographs with Singh in the backdrop of the Rafale aircraft.
• Singh was in the news earlier this year when Pakistan ran a disinformation campaign during Operation Sindoor, saying that her aircraft had been shot down and she had been taken prisoner. The IAF has earlier too released recent photos of Singh to debunk Pakistani claims on social media.
• A native of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, Shivangi was commissioned in the IAF in December 2017. She initially flew MIG-21 aircraft at an airbase in Rajasthan before converting to Rafale aircraft in 2020.
• Departing around 11.30 am, the sortie highlighted the Rafale’s agility and the IAF’s operational readiness at the strategically vital Ambala base, home to one of India’s two Rafale squadrons, the No. 17 Squadron ‘Golden Arrows’.

Review Questions

1. Who has assumed charge as the 35th Director General of the National Cadet
   Corps (NCC)?
   A. Lt Gen Gurbirpal Singh
   B. Lt Gen Virendra Vats
   C. Lt Gen Satish Dua
   D. Lt Gen Ranbir Singh
   ANSWER: B
2. The AMCA project, is expected to be inducted into the Indian Air Force by
   which year?
   A. 2028-29
   B. 2030-31
   C. 2034-35
   D. 2040-41
   ANSWER: C
3. What is the name of India’s upcoming Hypersonic Glide Vehicle (HGV) being
   developed by DRDO?
   A. Agni-VI
   B. Pralay
   C. Dhvani
   D. Surya
   ANSWER: C
4. The BRO recently broke its own record by building the world’s highest
   motorable road at
   A. Shin Ku La Pass
   B. Mig La Pass
   C. Umling La Pass
   D. None
   ANSWER: B
5. TASL will establish India’s first private-sector helicopter Final Assembly Line in
   Karnataka to build?
   A. HAL Dhruv
   B. Airbus H125
   C. Boeing Apache AH-64E
   D. Kamov Ka-226T
   ANSWER: B
6. Nigeria is close to finalising a deal with India for how many HAL Prachand Light
   Combat Helicopters?
   A. Two
   B. Four
   C. Six
   D. Eight
   ANSWER: B
7. Which organization recently signed a MoU with the Military College of
   Material Management?
   A. DRDO
   B. Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS)
   C. Eastern Naval Command
   D. Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL)
   ANSWER: B
8. Which shipyard built the vessel Androth?
   A. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. (MDL)
   B. Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE)
   C. Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL)
   D. Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL)
   ANSWER: B
9. What is the name of the upcoming tri-service drone and counter-drone
   warfare?
   A. Exercise Vayu Shakti
   B. Exercise Cold Start
   C. Exercise Trishul
   D. Exercise Garuda
   ANSWER: B
10. Where is the India–Russia joint military exercise Indra-2025 being conducted?
    A. Babina, Uttar Pradesh
    B. Mahajan, Rajasthan
    C. Mhow, Madhya Pradesh
    D. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
    ANSWER: B
11. What is the purpose of the Indian Radio Software Architecture (IRSA) released
    by DRDO?
    A. To enhance air defence systems
    B. To enable interoperability in military communication
    C. To develop artificial intelligence-based drones
    D. To improve radar detection systems
    ANSWER: B
12. What is the full form of the SAKSHAM system recently deployed by the Indian
    Army?
    A. Smart Anti-Kinetic Surveillance and High Mobility
    B. Situational Awareness for Kinetic Soft and Hard Kill Assets Management
    C. Secure Automated Kill System for Hostile Aerial Management
    D. Surveillance and Kinetic Strike Handling Automated Mechanism
    ANSWER: B
13. What is the main highlight of the £350 million defence deal signed between
    India and the UK?
    A. Supply of fighter jets and radar systems to the Indian Air Force
    B. Joint development of submarines for the Indian Navy
    C. Supply of Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM) and launchers to the Indian
    Army
    D. Production of missile guidance systems for Ukraine
    ANSWER: C
14. What innovation by Major Rajprasad RS recently received a patent from the
    Government of India?
    A. A drone-based battlefield surveillance system
    B. The ‘Vidyut Rakshak’ integrated generator monitoring and control system
    C. A portable solar-powered charging unit for field use
    D. An AI-based ammunition inventory management system
    ANSWER: B
15. Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2025 is being held at which location?
    A. Darwin, Australia
    B. Perth, Australia
    C. Sydney, Australia
    D. Melbourne, Australia
    ANSWER: B
16. Who became the first woman Flight Engineer in the BSF Air Wing?
    A. Inspector Kavita Singh
    B. Inspector Neha Sharma
    C. Inspector Bhawna Chaudhary
    D. Inspector Ritu Verma
    ANSWER: C
17. Where was the Gaza Peace Summit 2025, also known as the Sharm El Sheikh
    Summit, held?
    A. Doha, Qatar
    B. Cairo, Egypt
    C. Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
    D. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
    ANSWER: C
18. What is the value of the contract awarded by India to Zen Technologies
    Limited for anti-drone systems?
    A. $540,000
    B. $370,000
    C. $444,000
    D. $500,000
    ANSWER: C
19. What is the name of the bilateral maritime exercise between India and
    Indonesia?
    A. Garuda Shakti
    B. Mitra Shakti
    C. Samudra Shakti
    D. Indra Navy
    ANSWER: C
20. The sixth ASW SWC INS Magdala, was launched at which shipyard?
    A. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
    B. Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited
    C. Cochin Shipyard Limited
    D. Hindustan Shipyard Limited
    ANSWER: C
21. The 200 MW nuclear power reactors being developed by India are compact
    units designed for which unique purpose?
    A. Powering fighter aircraft
    B. Deployment on commercial ships
    C. Operating underwater drones
    D. Supplying energy to remote villages
    ANSWER: B
22. The Zorawar Light Tank recently achieved a successful test-firing of which
    indigenous missile?
    A. HELINA
    B. Nag MK-2
    C. Dhruvastra
    D. SANT
    ANSWER: B
23. Who was conferred with the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the
    Territorial Army?
    A. PV Sindhu
    B. Neeraj Chopra
    C. Abhinav Bindra
    D. Bajrang Punia
    ANSWER: B
24. Which aircraft recently completed its maiden flight at HAL facility in
    Bengaluru?
    A. HTT-40 (TH 4001)
    B. HJT-16 Kiran
    C. Tejas Mk-1A
    D. IJT Sitara
    ANSWER: A
25. Project Arunank of the BRO recently celebrated its 18th Raising Day at which
    location?
    A. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
    B. Tezpur, Assam
    C. Naharlagun, Arunachal Pradesh
    D. Guwahati, Assam
    ANSWER: C
26. The ICGS Ajit and ICGS Aparajit, were constructed by which shipyard?
    A. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
    B. Cochin Shipyard Limited
    C. Goa Shipyard Limited
    D. Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers
    ANSWER: C
27. What historic event does Infantry Day commemorate?
    A. The formation of the Indian Army
    B. The first landing of Indian Army Infantrymen at Srinagar airport in 1947
    C. The Kargil victory of 1999
    D. The signing of the Instrument of Accession by Jammu and Kashmir
    ANSWER: B
28. The Indian Navy’s indigenously built survey vessel Ikshak was built by which
    shipbuilder?
    A. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL)
    B. Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd
    C. Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL)
    D. Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL)
    ANSWER: B
29. Which organisation developed the next-gen “Product 177S” engine concept
    showcased to the MoD?
    A. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
    B. United Engine Corporation (UEC)
    C. Safran Aircraft Engines
    D. Roscosmos
    ANSWER: B
30. The SJ-100 Regional Jet will be jointly produced in India by HAL and which
    Russian company?
    A. United Aircraft Corporation (PJSC-UAC)
    B. Sukhoi Design Bureau
    C. Tupolev Aviation Company
    D. Rostec State Corporation
    ANSWER: A

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