Monthly Defence Current Affairs September 2026

In Monthly Defence Current Affairs for September 2026, we will see the latest national and international current affairs news. These important current affairs will be beneficial for your upcoming NDA, CDS, CDS OTA, AFCAT, TA, Agniveer Army, Agniveer Navy, Agniveer Air Force, Women Military Police, INET, MNS, ACC exams, SCO, PCSL, CAPF, and SSB interviews, and direct entries for Army, Navy, and Air Force like SSC Tech, TGC, JAG, NCC, TES, 10+2 Cadet. Download a PDF file about current events at the end of this article. Let us now see the Current Affairs.

Monthly Defence Current Affairs September 2026

INS Nipun Commissioned

• The Indian Navy commissioned INS Nipun, the second Diving Support Vessel (DSV) of the Nistar Class, at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, on 31 Aug 2026, marking a significant enhancement of the Navy’s deep-sea diving, underwater intervention and submarine rescue capabilities.
• Indigenously designed and constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited, Visakhapatnam, INS Nipun is a significant addition to the Indian Navy’s specialist underwater capability.
• INS Nipun is a purpose-built platform designed primarily for deep-sea diving and underwater operations. The ship is capable of supporting saturation, air and heliox diving and is equipped with remotely operated underwater systems for inspection and intervention.
• INS Nipun is also capable of supporting submarine rescue operations, significantly strengthening the Indian Navy’s ability to respond to underwater contingencies.
• The motto, ‘Far Beneath, Few Beyond’, reflects the resolve, skill and endurance required to operate in one of the most challenging domains of the maritime environment.

AVM Shakti Sharma Scripts History As First (Non-Medical) Woman Two-star Officer

• In a historic milestone for the Indian Air Force Air Vice Marshal Shakti Sharma  became the first woman officer (non-medical) in the Indian Defence Forces to attain the rank of Air Vice Marshal (or equivalent).
• On 01 September 2026, she assumed the appointment of Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Education) at Air Headquarters.
• Commissioned into the Education Branch of the IAF on 18 June 1994, AVM Shakti Sharma brings a wealth of experience to her new role, spanning diverse postings across Training Establishments, Field Stations, Command Headquarters, and Air Headquarters.
• Throughout her career, she has spearheaded key institutional initiatives, including establishing the IAF Chairs of Excellence at IlT Kanpur and Pune University to drive academic and strategic defense collaboration.
• She also created history as the first woman officer from the Tri-Services to command a Sainik School, serving as Principal of Sainik School, Kapurthala.
• This landmark achievemenț marks a new chapter in the journey of women officers in the Indian Defence Forces. With over three decades of distinguished service, she continues to inspire generations to “Touch the Sky with Glory”.

Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja Takes Over As DGAFMS

• Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja assumed the appointment of the 47th Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS) on September 01, 2026.
• As the DGAFMS, Air Marshal Thareja will oversee the provision of comprehensive medical support to the Defence Forces.
• His appointment comes at a time of significant transformation within the AFMS, with continuing emphasis on operational medical preparedness, jointness, modernisation of military healthcare, digital health, medical research and innovation, human-resource development and delivery of high-quality healthcare to serving personnel, veterans and their dependents.
• An alumnus of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, Air Marshal Thareja was commissioned into the Army Medical Corps in December 1986. A distinguished physician and gastroenterologist, he completed his MD in Medicine from Delhi and DM in Gastroenterology from AIIMS, New Delhi.

16^th Aero India to be held in Bengaluru

• Aero India, Asia’s largest air show and one of the world’s premier aerospace and defence exhibitions, is all set to return with its 16th edition at Air Force Station, Yelahanka in Bengaluru, Karnataka from February 8 to 12, 2027.
• Organised by the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence, the event will bring together leading global aerospace and defence companies, policymakers, technology experts, innovators, industry stakeholders and defence forces personnel on a common platform.
• Aero India has emerged as a flagship international event showcasing the nation’s growing capabilities in aerospace, defence manufacturing, emerging technologies and innovation.
• It provides a dynamic platform for business engagement, technology exchange, international cooperation and strategic dialogue, while highlighting India’s expanding defence industrial ecosystem and its growing role in the global aerospace and defence sector.
• The five-day event will feature a comprehensive exhibition and a range of business and strategic engagements, providing opportunities for industry-to-industry interactions, government-to-industry engagements, technology demonstrations and collaborations.
• Aero India 2027 is expected to provide a significant impetus to India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and its emergence as a trusted partner in the global defence and aerospace supply chain.

IAF Tests Indigenous Khagantak-243 Glide Bomb

• IAF successfully conducted the drop trial of the indigenously designed and developed Khagantak-243, a long-range glide bomb, marking what the force called a significant milestone for the IAF and Indian industry.
• The force added that the trial reflected new levels of lethality achieved through the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives, along with continued defence innovation.
• The IAF had earlier placed an order with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the Khagantak-243 munitions. The number of units and the contract value have not been disclosed.
• The weapon has been developed jointly by JSR Dynamics and BEL. JSR Dynamics has provided the bomb’s body and control systems, while BEL has supplied its electronics and guidance subsystems.
• The Khagantak-243 is a 300-kg-class airborne long-range stand-off precision-guided glide bomb. Unlike a conventional free-fall bomb, it is designed to be released from a fighter aircraft and glide towards its target using aerodynamic wings and control surfaces, allowing the launch aircraft to strike from a stand-off distance instead of flying directly over the target.

ISRO’s Launch of India’s First Imaging Satellite

• ISRO’s EOS-05 is set to give India a new kind of view from space when the Earth observation satellite launches aboard the GSLV-F17 mission from Sriharikota at 2:55 am on September 4.
• Positioned in geosynchronous orbit around 36,000 km above Earth, the satellite is designed to repeatedly observe the same region continuously rather than capture brief snapshots while passing overhead.ISRO has described EOS-05, also known as Gisat-1A, as India’s first state-of-the-art imaging satellite from geosynchronous orbit.Its ability to maintain persistent coverage could support monitoring of the Indian subcontinent, including remote border areas, strategic assets, severe weather and environmental events. The satellite is intended for both civilian and military applications.Most of India’s Earth observation and imaging satellites, including the Cartosat and Risat series, operate in low Earth orbit, generally between 60 km and 2,000 km.A GEO satellite offers a fundamentally different advantage. At roughly 36,000 km altitude, a satellite can match Earth’s rotational speed and remain positioned over the same location.
• That allows it to maintain a continuous view of a particular part of the planet rather than returning to the same area only after completing multiple orbits.

Andaman & Nicobar Islands May Get Small Nuclear Reactors

• India is exploring the possibility of deploying Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in the strategically important Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as electricity demand is expected to rise with the expansion of major infrastructure projects in the region.
• Scientists associated with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) are assessing potential locations across the Union Territory for such reactors. A team from the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) is undertaking site assessments across all three districts between September 4 and 8, 2026, according to the report.
• Why are nuclear reactors being considered?
• The proposed reactors are primarily linked to the anticipated growth in the islands’ electricity requirements. The Great Nicobar region, in particular, is expected to see substantial infrastructure development, which could significantly increase its demand for reliable power.
• Small Modular Reactors could provide a dependable source of electricity for remote island locations while reducing dependence on conventional fuel-based power generation.
• India is also developing indigenous small-reactor technologies as part of its broader nuclear-energy expansion. BARC’s nuclear research activities include reactor technology and the development of advanced nuclear systems.
• What are Small Modular Reactors?
• Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are compact nuclear reactors designed to generate electricity on a smaller scale than conventional large nuclear power plants.
• Their modular design can potentially make them suitable for locations where building a large conventional nuclear plant may be difficult. For geographically isolated regions such as islands, a compact and reliable electricity source can have particular advantages.
• However, the proposed Andaman and Nicobar project is presently at the site-assessment and planning stage; the reported surveys do not mean that reactors have already been approved or constructed.
• Strategic Importance of Andaman and Nicobar Islands
• The Andaman and Nicobar Islands occupy an important position in the Indian Ocean region, particularly because of their proximity to the Strait of Malacca, one of the world’s major maritime chokepoints.
• The islands therefore have significance not only for civilian infrastructure but also for India’s maritime-security strategy.
• The Great Nicobar area is particularly important because of its location near major sea routes. India is simultaneously pursuing major infrastructure development in the region, including projects aimed at improving connectivity and maritime capabilities.
• The islands also host important military infrastructure, including INS Baaz, a naval air station near Campbell Bay on Great Nicobar.
• China Factor
• The proposal comes against the backdrop of China’s expanding presence in the Indian Ocean region.
• The Andaman and Nicobar chain gives India a strategically advantageous position near the western approaches to the Strait of Malacca. Greater infrastructure and energy availability could support India’s ability to maintain a sustained presence in this strategically important part of the Indian Ocean.
• The development should therefore be viewed in two interconnected contexts:
• Energy Security: Providing reliable electricity for rapidly expanding infrastructure.
• Strategic Security: Strengthening India’s ability to develop and sustain infrastructure in a geopolitically important maritime region.
• The latest reporting specifically links the nuclear-power exploration with concerns surrounding China’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean.
• Great Nicobar: A Major Infrastructure Focus
• Great Nicobar has emerged as an important focus of India’s infrastructure plans.
• The planned development of the region involves major infrastructure intended to improve connectivity and maritime capabilities. Such projects are expected to increase electricity requirements considerably.
• Consequently, ensuring a stable and dependable power supply will be an important component of the region’s long-term development.
• Nuclear power is being considered as one possible solution, particularly because SMRs can potentially be deployed in locations requiring relatively compact generating facilities.
• Role of BARC
• The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) is India’s premier nuclear research institution and operates under the Department of Atomic Energy.
• Its research covers areas including:
• Nuclear reactor technology
• Nuclear fuel-cycle technologies
• Nuclear science
• Materials science
• Radiation monitoring
• Nuclear applications
• Advanced reactor systems
• BARC’s existing research portfolio includes several types of research reactors and work on advanced reactor technologies.
• Why This Development Matters
• The proposed deployment of SMRs in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands could have significance beyond electricity generation.
• 1. Energy Independence
• The islands are geographically separated from mainland India. Local nuclear generation could provide a dependable source of electricity without relying as heavily on fuel transportation.
• 2. Infrastructure Development
• Reliable power would support the expansion of civilian and strategic infrastructure, particularly in Great Nicobar.
• 3. Strategic Presence
• Improved infrastructure can strengthen India’s ability to maintain a sustained presence in the strategically important eastern Indian Ocean.
• 4. Nuclear Technology
• The initiative could provide an additional application for India’s emerging Small Modular Reactor technology.
• 5. Maritime Security
• The location of the islands near the Strait of Malacca gives them considerable importance for India’s maritime-security architecture.

DAC Clears Capital Acquisition Proposals Worth About Rs 1.10 Lakh Crore

• The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), under the chairmanship of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh on September 07, 2026 accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) i.e., in-principle administrative approval to various acquisition proposals of the Defence Forces at an estimated cost of about Rs 1,10,000 crore. For the Indian Army, approval was granted for the procurement of Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Recce Vehicles, High Mobility Vehicles (HMV), Self-Propelled Mechanical Mine Layers (MML), Advanced Light Helicopters (ALHs), Trawl Tanks and Sarvatra Bridge System.
• The CBRN Recce Vehicles will be capable of detecting, identifying, monitoring and marking of areas contaminated with CBRN agents. The HMVs will enhance operational capabilities, logistic support and mobility in challenging terrains. The MMLs will achieve the desired operational capability in terms of fast and responsive minelaying in difficult terrains. The ALHs will execute complex missions across all terrains and operational situations for the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force. The Trawl Tanks and Bridge System will be utilised to provide composite crossings to fighting formations during operations in varied terrains.
• For the Indian Navy, AoN was accorded for the procurement of Arudhra Radars, Design & Development and subsequent procurement of Marine Gas Turbines (MGT). Arudhra Radar will replace the existing Air Route Surveillance Radars at various Naval Air Stations and MGT, a warship propulsion system, will reduce dependency on foreign vendors.
• For the Indian Air Force, approval was granted to various proposals to enhance the war-fighting capability of fighters, transports and helicopters. Approval was also accorded for procuring Ground-Based Multi-Purpose Jammer (GBMPJ) and installing Defence Forces Secure Access Card (DEFSAC) System. The GBMPJ will provide effective jamming against radars of adversaries and DEFSAC will replace existing paper based Identity Card/Passes/Permits with an interoperable Radio Frequency Identification-based smart cards system.
• Of the total AoNs accorded, approximately 98% of procurements will be made from the Indian Industry.

Tata Boeing Aerospace Marks 400^th Apache Fuselage Delivery

• Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL), a joint venture between Boeing and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), has rolled out its 400th fuselage for the AH-64E Apache attack helicopter from its 52,000-square-metre manufacturing facility in Hyderabad, according to ANI.
• The fuselages, manufactured entirely in India, are integrated into final Apache aircraft supplied to customers around the world, including the US Army, as well as the six Apache helicopters delivered to the Indian Army in 2025. Separately, the Indian Air Force currently operates a fleet of 22 AH-64E Apache helicopters.
• Established in 2016, TBAL employs more than 750 engineers and technicians who rely on advanced robotics, automation and aerospace manufacturing technologies to produce fuselage aerostructures for the Apache programme. According to ANI, this manufacturing capability reflects the growing integration of India’s aerospace ecosystem into global defence supply chains.In a related development, Tata Advanced Systems Limited signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) last week with the Javelin Joint Venture, a partnership between Raytheon and Lockheed Martin, covering the co-production of the Javelin All Up Round (AUR) missile within India, according to a joint press release issued by the companies.
• TASL was selected as the prime partner for future in-country co-production following an evaluation of multiple firms based on their capability and technical expertise. Under the agreement, both parties intend to explore setting up a dedicated final assembly and integration facility in India, alongside local component manufacturing capabilities, to meet future production demands and support regional stability across the Indo-Pacific.
• The co-production initiative is designed to connect American manufacturing supply chains with Indian assembly operations. Multiyear manufacturing of sub-assembly kits will take place at Lockheed Martin’s facility in Troy, Alabama, while guidance electronics units will be produced at Raytheon’s facility in Tucson, Arizona. These components will subsequently be shipped to India for final assembly and integration, a process expected to generate high-tech jobs locally while sustaining manufacturing  .

EX Veer Guardian-2026

• Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Japan Air Self Defence Force (JASDF) conducted bilateral Air Exercise, Veer Guardian-2026, at Air Force Station Jodhpur, from 09 Sep 26 to 22 Sep 2026.
• The Indian Air Force participated with a diverse mix of frontline combat aircraft including indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Su-30 MKl and Rafale. JASDF will participate with its F-2A fighter aircraft.
• During the fourteen-day exercise, participating air warriors undertake advanced operational missions and engage in extensive professional interactions.
• The program integrates mission planning conferences, subject matter expert exchanges, and interaction between personnel on engineering and aspects of aerospace safety, fostering deep operational synergy between the two Air Forces.
• Exercise Veer Guardian-26 reflects a deepening strategic partnership between India and Japan by enhancing tactical proficiency and aerospace operational synergy. The exercise reaffirms the longstanding bonds of friendship and strategic cooperation between the two nations.

Tata Emerges Lowest Bidder for Rs 20,000-Crore Project Zorawar

• Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) has emerged as the lowest bidder in a gruelling defence ministry contest to develop a next-generation light battle tank, beating four other entities vying for the key project valued at nearly ₹20,000 crore, said people familiar with the matter.
• The Ministry of Defence selected TASL following a rigorous three-year evaluation of both technical and commercial bids from five competing entities.While TASL initially emerged as the lowest bidder last year, the formal issuance of a Production Order (PO) was delayed after a competitor raised objections regarding the selection process.
• Following a thorough review by the Army and the defence ministry, the objections were dismissed, clearing the path for the project to proceed.The Make-I Framework and Next Steps​The Armoured Fighting Vehicle-Indian Light Tank (AFV-ILT) programme is being executed under the defence ministry’s ‘Make-I’ acquisition category.This framework is designed to boost indigenous defence manufacturing by providing 70% government funding for the design and development phases of major projects.As the L1 bidder, TASL has been tasked with developing and demonstrating two operational tank prototypes within a strict 130-week timeframe.
• Furthermore, Mahindra Defence Systems, which emerged as the second-lowest bidder (L2), will also be invited to develop a prototype, ensuring a competitive and resilient supply chain for the armed forces.Designed for the Heights: Project Zorawar​Named after the legendary 19th-century Dogra General Zorawar Singh Kahlon—often referred to as the “Conqueror of Ladakh”—Project Zorawar aims to bridge a critical operational gap in the Indian Army’s armoured capabilities.Heavy main battle tanks like the T-72 and T-90 struggle to manoeuvre effectively in extreme elevations and low-oxygen environments.
• The new AFV-ILT is specifically engineered for high-altitude warfare in the Himalayas, as well as operations in desert and marshy terrains.Key Expected Specifications:Weight Class: Approximately 25 tonnes, allowing for rapid air-transportability and superior mobility in restricted mountain passes.Firepower & Tech: TASL has reportedly proposed an indigenous turret system. The final tanks are expected to feature advanced artificial intelligence capabilities, active protection systems, and seamless integration with tactical surveillance drones.
• Lethality: To adapt to modern battlefield realities, the platform will be equipped with self-developed loitering munitions (kamikaze drones), granting the crew extended hunter-killer capabilities.

India’s Astrogate Labs To Launch Indigenous Optical Inter-Satellite Link

• Astrogate Labs, a deep-tech company based in Bangalore, has announced a major breakthrough in India’s space communications sector.
• The firm is developing the country’s first indigenous Optical Inter-Satellite Link terminal, with flight readiness targeted for 2027.
• This milestone was unveiled at the Bangalore Space Expo 2026, where the company also demonstrated AstroLink Micro, its 10 GBPS laser communication terminal.
• The announcement builds on Astrogate’s earlier success in supplying space-to-ground laser communication terminals to ISRO, making it the only Indian company to deliver this strategic technology to the national space agency.
• Astrogate’s space-to-ground terminals have already achieved Technology Readiness Level 8, meaning they are fully qualified for flight. The company has also completed cross-compatibility testing with the University of Western Australia’s TeraNet mobile optical ground station, confirming interoperability with international infrastructure.
• The unveiling of the OISL capability at the Expo marks Astrogate’s transition from satellite-to-ground optical communications to satellite-to-satellite connectivity, a critical step in building advanced orbital networks.
• SpaceX has already demonstrated this architecture at scale, with its 2025 Starlink progress report citing more than 13,000 bidirectional laser links operating as an optical mesh in orbit.
• Astrogate aims to replicate and indigenise such capabilities for India’s space ecosystem.

Adani Defence Signs 5-year Deal To Power India-Russia AK-203 Rifle Programme

• Adani Defence & Aerospace has signed a five-year agreement with Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) to supply indigenously manufactured 7.62×39 mm ammunition for AK-203 assault rifles being produced in India, creating an integrated domestic supply chain for the India-Russia rifle programme.
• Under the pact, Adani Defence will supply the small-calibre ammunition required for the AK-203 programme over the five-year period, providing an Indian source of supply and supporting continuity of ammunition availability through the contract term, an Adani release said.
• The agreement brings together two critical strands of the AK-203 programme within India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem, rifle production by IRRPL and ammunition manufacturing by Adani Defence, pairing locally produced rifles with locally manufactured ammunition for the first time under a single supply arrangement.
• IRRPL was established in 2019 under an India-Russia intergovernmental agreement to manufacture AK-203 rifles for the Indian Armed Forces, with its manufacturing facility located at Korwa in Uttar Pradesh’s Amethi district.
• The joint venture counts Indian shareholders Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Ltd and Munitions India Ltd, alongside Russian shareholders Concern Kalashnikov and Rosoboronexport.
• The Ministry of Defence has designated IRRPL as the entity responsible for indigenous production of the AK-203. The government had signed a contract with the company in December 2021 for 6,01,427 AK-203 rifles, to be manufactured at the Korwa facility.
• Adani Defence has built small-calibre ammunition manufacturing capabilities in India, including a dedicated production facility in Kanpur. The company said the latest agreement would further strengthen domestic capabilities across the small-arms supply chain and support the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat push for greater self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Exercise Samudra Laksamana 2026

• As part of the Indian Navy’s Operational Deployment, INS Mysore arrived at Lumut, Malaysia, on 09 Sep 2026 participated in the 4th edition of bilateral maritime exercise ‘Samudra Laksamana’ between the Indian Navy and the Royal Malaysian Navy.
• The ship and her crew were warmly welcomed by personnel of the Royal Malaysian Navy and officials from the High Commission of India in Malaysia.
• Exercise Samudra Laksamana comprises of professional engagements in harbour and at sea, including cross-deck visits, operational interactions and sporting engagements.
• These activities provided opportunities for personnel of both navies to exchange professional experiences, enhance interoperability and foster greater mutual understanding.
• Building upon the momentum generated by recent bilateral engagements, including the 12th India – Malaysia Sub Committee Meeting held on 01 Jul 2026, the visit underscores the strong and enduring maritime partnership between India and Malaysia and reflects the expanding scope of cooperation between the two navies.
• The engagement is aligned with the Government of India’s vision of MAHASAGAR and the ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation 2026.

India Has 190 Nuclear Warheads

• India is estimated to have assembled around 190 nuclear warheads, including more than 160 associated with operational delivery systems and additional warheads for newer missiles under production, according to a new assessment by the Federation of American Scientists (FAS).
• The US nonprofit policy think tank based its estimate on open-source information, state-originating data and commercial satellite imagery. The assessment was published in an article titled “India’s Nuclear Weapons – 2026” by Hans Kristensen, director of the FAS Nuclear Information Project.
• “We estimate that India may have produced enough military plutonium for 140 to 225 nuclear warheads and might have assembled up to 190,” the report said.
• FAS added that India’s warhead stockpile could grow as additional nuclear-capable delivery systems are developed.
• The FAS assessment cited International Panel on Fissile Materials estimates that India had produced approximately 730 kg, plus or minus about 170 kg, of weapon-grade plutonium by the beginning of 2026.
• The report, however, noted that the calculation has several uncertainties, including the designs of the warheads India has developed and the amount of plutonium actually converted into assembled weapons.
• India’s HEU production is largely assumed to be directed towards fuel for its expanding fleet of nuclear-powered vessels and submarines.
• The assessment also identified the 100-megawatt Dhruva reactor at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre complex near Mumbai as India’s main source of weapons-grade plutonium, while noting that the CIRUS reactor at the same site served that purpose until 2010.
• The Bulletin’s assessment also points to India’s newly operational Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam as a potential future source of additional fissile material. The 500-MWt reactor achieved first criticality in April 2026.
• According to its assessment, if the reactor operated at 80% efficiency, it could hypothetically produce an estimated 140 kg of Plutonium-239 annually, an amount the publication said could be sufficient for up to 35 nuclear warheads.
• The Indian Department of Atomic Energy confirmed that the 500 MWe PFBR at Kalpakkam achieved first criticality on April 6, 2026. The department describes the reactor as part of the second stage of India’s three-stage nuclear power programme.

ISRO Tests CE20 Cryogenic Engine at 220 kN Thrust

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) conducted a flight acceptance hot test of the indigenous CE20 cryogenic engine at an uprated thrust level of 220 kN on 9 September 2026.
• The test took place at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, and the engine is linked to the upgraded C32 upper stage of an upcoming LVM3 mission.
• The CE20 is a cryogenic upper-stage engine developed by ISRO for the LVM3 launch vehicle. It uses liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen as propellants, which are stored at very low temperatures and are used in high-performance rocket stages.
• LVM3 is India’s heavy-lift launch vehicle used for large satellite missions and human spaceflight-related applications. The C32 stage is the upgraded upper stage associated with the CE20 engine, and the 220 kN thrust configuration is intended to increase payload carrying capability.
• During the hot test, ISRO also demonstrated the Liquid Oxygen Tank Pressurisation Module, or LTPM, which is designed for the C32 stages of the Gaganyaan missions.
• The test followed an earlier sea-level hot test of the CE20 engine on 10 March 2026, which ran for 165 seconds at 22-tonne thrust with an advanced Nozzle Protection System.

India Secures 105 Russian Il‑114‑300 Jets

• Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation has signed intent agreements and Memoranda of Understanding for the delivery of 105 Il‑114‑300 regional turboprop aircraft to three Indian domestic airlines.
• The package includes 50 aircraft for Pinnacle Air, up to 20 for Air Kerala, and 35 for Sleek Aviation. The deal was finalised on the sidelines of the Innoprom.India exhibition in New Delhi, marking a milestone in Indo‑Russian civil aviation cooperation.
• This breakthrough represents Russia’s first major multi‑airline civil aircraft commercial commitment in India. It signals a shift from Moscow’s traditional focus on military hardware towards high‑volume civil transport.
• The agreements complement the ongoing co‑production and licensing partnership between UAC and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, which is currently localising the 100‑seat SJ‑100 passenger jet program in India.
• The Il‑114‑300 is a twin‑engine turboprop designed for short runways and remote locations, making it well‑suited to India’s UDAN regional connectivity scheme. Pinnacle Air, Air Kerala, and Sleek Aviation are adopting Russian‑origin turboprops to overcome global supply backlogs from Western manufacturers.
• The localisation angle also builds credibility for HAL’s joint program with UAC, paving the way for potential local manufacturing of the Il‑114‑300 alongside the SJ‑100.
• India remains the third‑largest and fastest‑growing domestic aviation market globally. Regional carriers face severe constraints in securing aircraft due to supply chain bottlenecks.
• Cost‑effective, import‑substituted turboprops like the 64‑70 seat Il‑114‑300 provide a competitive option for tier‑2 and tier‑3 connectivity, directly supporting government efforts to expand affordable air travel.

Hydrogen UAV For Indian Air Force

• Lucknow-based Kalam Labs has joined hands with France’s H3 Dynamics to develop a cutting-edge hydrogen-powered UAV for the Indian Air Force, promising 24-hour endurance and zero-emission flight. This collaboration is set to significantly enhance India’s ISR capabilities while aligning with global sustainability goals.
• The partnership between Kalam Labs and H3 Dynamics is a strategic step in advancing India’s aerial  defence technology. Kalam Labs, a Lucknow-based aerospace Start-Up specialising in stratospheric systems, has already demonstrated expertise in high-altitude UAVs and stratospheric deployment programs.
• H3 Dynamics, headquartered in France, is recognised globally for its pioneering hydrogen fuel cell propulsion systems, which are now being adapted for military-grade UAV applications.
• The goal of this collaboration is to build a hydrogen-electric drone capable of flying continuously for 24 hours. Such endurance is a major leap compared to conventional battery-powered UAVs, which typically achieve only a fraction of this duration.
• The Indian Air Force is the intended end user of this system. For the IAF, the UAV promises enhanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. A 24-hour endurance platform would allow persistent monitoring of sensitive border regions, maritime zones, and strategic installations without the need for frequent recovery or refuelling.
• H3 Dynamics complements this expertise with its advanced hydrogen fuel cell propulsion modules, which are lighter, more efficient, and capable of delivering long-duration power output. Together, the two companies aim to indigenise production while leveraging French technology for propulsion.

BRICS Leaders Adopt New Delhi Declaration 2026

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that BRICS member countries had unanimously adopted the New Delhi Declaration 2026, with no objections raised by any nation.
• The adoption followed intensive negotiations aimed at bridging differences and achieving consensus on the joint statement. This marks a significant diplomatic success for India’s chairship of the summit.The announcement came after a series of high-level bilateral engagements in New Delhi. Prime Minister Modi held separate meetings with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Russian President Vladimir Putin and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
• These discussions took place on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit, reflecting India’s active diplomatic outreach.The summit was hosted by India under the theme “Building Resilience and Innovation for Cooperation and Sustainability.” Leaders gathered to deliberate on regional stability, economic ties and wider global challenges.The adoption of the declaration underscored the grouping’s ability to find common ground despite diverse perspectives.India-Indonesia ties were in focus as Prime Minister Modi met Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.
• The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations across a wide range of sectors.The 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi concluded with the unanimous adoption of the New Delhi Declaration 2026, reinforcing India’s role as a consensus builder in a fractured global environment.
• The summit showcased India’s leadership in fostering resilience, innovation and cooperation among emerging economies, while advancing the collective voice of the Global South in global governance.

BRICS Confronts Oil Shock With Push For Energy Security

• BRICS leaders gathered in New Delhi on 12–13 September as Brent crude surged past $100 a barrel, placing energy security firmly back at the centre of the global economy.
• Brent futures touched $102.07 on Thursday, driven by the Iran conflict and attacks on maritime shipping that disrupted flows through the Strait of Hormuz.
• This waterway has historically carried nearly one-fifth of global oil and gas supplies, making any prolonged disruption a severe risk for Asian importers.
• India, one of the world’s largest oil importers, faces particular vulnerability. Higher crude prices, freight costs and shipping disruptions directly impact its economy.
• The timing is critical, as New Delhi has been working to build greater resilience into its energy system. This shock has therefore added urgency to India’s push for diversified energy security.
• The BRICS grouping now has a significant energy dimension. The 11-member bloc includes major producers such as Russia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, alongside large consumers like India and China.
• Brazil also contributes as a notable oil producer. Collectively, BRICS accounts for 49.5 per cent of the global population, 40 per cent of global GDP and 26 per cent of global trade, according to Indian government figures.
• The BRICS Energy Cooperation Roadmap 2025–2030, adopted under Brazil’s presidency, already seeks deeper collaboration on security, trade, infrastructure and technology, while addressing the transition to lower-carbon systems. India’s 2026 energy track has built on this, pursuing “Energy for All” while balancing security, affordability, sustainability and innovation.

Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026

• The opening ceremony of 22^nd edition of India-US Joint Military Exercise Yudh Abhyas was held at Auli Foreign Training Node in Uttarakhand.
• Major General Amaresh Gunjan, General Officer Commanding, 14 Infantry Division and Colonel Benjamin Jackman, Commander, 1st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division, US Army, addressed the participating contingents comprising of 600 personnel from each side.The exercise is simultaneously being conducted at Auli and Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan.
• The exercise is aimed at enhancing the joint military capability of both armies for employment of Integrated Battle Groups in mountainous and semi-mountainous terrain, with emphasis on infantry-dominated operations.
• Technology infusion will form a key focus area. The training will include the employment of drones and autonomous systems for surveillance and reconnaissance as well as demonstration of contemporary weapon systems will be undertaken at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges.

Sanjukta Parasor As The First Female Inspector General of CoBRA unit

• IPS officer Sanjukta Parasor has been appointed the Inspector General (IG) of the CRPF’s special jungle warfare commando unit, CoBRA, the first woman to hold the post.
• Parasor is a 2006-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the Assam-Meghalaya cadre.The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) headquarters issued an order to this effect last week. Parasor will succeed 1996-batch IPS officer Danesh Rana as the IG of the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA).”This is the first time that the ten-battalion-strong CoBRA of the CRPF will be headed by a woman officer,” a senior officer told PTI.Parasor previously served in the National Investigation Agency (NIA), in addition to working in her cadre state of Assam.
• The CRPF raised CoBRA in 2008-09 to tackle Left Wing Extremism (LWE) in multiple Indian states, and insurgency in certain Northeast states.Two CoBRA units were recently deployed by the CRPF to check armed violence in Manipur.
• The MHA credits the battalion’s commandos with successful intelligence-based jungle warfare and guerrilla operations against Naxals, which led to the end of Maoist violence in the country this March.

Completion ‘Aparajita – Parang La 2026’

• The All India Girls High Altitude Long Trek ‘Aparajita – Parang La 2026’, a flagship adventure activity of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) was flagged-in by DG NCC Lt Gen Virendra Vats and Additional Secretary, Ministry of Defence Smt Dipti Mohil Chawla at Karzok, Ladakh on September 16, 2026.
• During the expedition, the team comprising 20 NCC Girl Cadets selected from across the country traversed the Parang La Pass (5,578 metres), connecting the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh with the Changthang region of Ladakh.
• Covering approximately 250 kilometres over 30 days, the route passed through high-altitude terrain including glaciers, snowfields and river valleys.
• Accompanied by officers, instructors, medical staff and support personnel, the team successfully completed the trek from Kibber in Himachal Pradesh to Karzok in Ladakh. The trek was flagged-off by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh from New Delhi on August 18, 2026.
• The trek was organised to promote participation of young women in adventure activities and provide exposure to challenging high-altitude conditions. It was also aimed to strengthen national integration by bringing together cadets from different parts of the country.

HAL Hands Over Aircrafts To Forces

• HAL handed over two LCA Tejas Final Operational Clearance Twin Seater Trainers & three HTT 40 Basic Trainers to the IAF and four Dhruv Next Generation (NG) helicopters to Pawan Hans Limited (PHL).
• On the HTT-40, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that India had, for years, relied on imported aircraft to meet its basic training requirements, but HAL is now indigenously manufacturing HTT-40 to cater to the needs of IAF.
• The HTT-40 (Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40) is an indigenously designed and developed Basic Trainer Aircraft intended to meet the primary training requirements of the Defence Forces.
• The aircraft is built around a proven turboprop engine and is designed to provide good low-speed handling characteristics and effective training for trainee pilots.
• The Dhruv NG marks an important step in HAL’s entry into the civil and commercial rotary-wing segment. Configured for civil operations, the helicopter incorporates enhanced systems, modern avionics and a more powerful engine.

Exercise SLINEX-26

• The 13th edition of the Sri Lanka-India bilateral maritime exercise, SLINEX-26, conducted at Visakhapatnam from 17 to 21 Sep 26. The exercise commenced with the Harbour Phase, which will be followed by the Sea Phase.
• INS Kavaratti, an indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Corvette, and INS Jyoti, the Fleet Tanker, will participate from the Indian Navy, while SLNS Sindurala represents the Sri Lanka Navy.Conceptualised in 2005, SLINEX has evolved into an important forum for fostering maritime cooperation, interoperability and mutual understanding between the two Navies.The Harbour Phase, conducted under the aegis of the Eastern Naval Command, commenced with an opening ceremony and reception onboard INS Kavaratti for the visiting crew of SLNS Sindurala.
• Aligned with India’s vision of MAHASAGAR, SLINEX-26 reinforces India’s commitment to a secure, stable and inclusive maritime environment and further consolidates the enduring maritime partnership between India and Sri Lanka.

1965 War Hero & Vir Chakra Awardee Alfred Dies

• The Vir Chakra is India’s third-highest wartime gallantry award, after the Param Vir Chakra and the Maha Vir Chakra. Alfred Tyrone Cooke received the Vir Chakra on 7 September 1965 for courage and tactical skill during aerial combat.
• The 1965 Indo-Pak War was fought between India and Pakistan in September 1965. During the Kalaikunda air battle, Cooke engaged six Pakistani Sabre jets attacking the airfield and shot down one aircraft while damaging another.
• Cooke served in No. 14 Squadron of the Indian Air Force, which is also known as the “Bulls”. He retired from the Indian Air Force in 1968 and later settled in Australia.
• After retirement, Alfred Tyrone Cooke lived in Australia and remained connected with his former squadron. He donated his Vir Chakra medal to No. 14 Squadron in 2016.

Exercise Nomadic Elephant 2026

• The 18th edition of the India – Mongolia Joint Military Exercise NOMADIC ELEPHANT, an annual platoon-level exercise conducted alternately in India and Mongolia, commenced today at the Foreign Training Node, Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.
• The exercise scheduled from 21 September to 03 October 2026. The last edition of the exercise was conducted at Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, in May–June 2025.The Indian Army and the Mongolian Armed Forces are represented by 45 personnel each. The exercise aims to enhance the joint military capability of both sides to undertake Counter-Insurgency Operations in semi-urban and mountainous terrain under the United Nations Mandate.The joint training will focus on tactical-level operations, exchange of best practices, refinement of operational drills and enhancement of interoperability between the two armies.
• Exercise NOMADIC ELEPHANT 2026 will further enhance defence cooperation between India and Mongolia and reinforce the longstanding bonds of friendship and mutual trust between the two friendly nations.

IAF Exercise Tarang Shakti

• The Indian Air Force will host the second edition of Exercise Tarang Shakti at Jodhpur in Rajasthan, bringing together air forces from multiple countries for joint aerial operations, tactical training and interoperability drills. The exercise is expected to be held from September 26 to October 12.
• In a post on X, the Indian Air Force said, “Exercise Tarang Shakti is back,” describing the 2026 edition as India’s premier multinational air exercise and saying global air forces will come together for joint tactical manoeuvres.
• According to officials, foreign nations will join the drills with a wide range of aerial assets. The United States is set to deploy two to three F-35 fifth-generation combat aircraft, France will participate with its Rafale fighters, and the United Arab Emirates will deploy its F-16 fighter jets. Additionally, several participating countries will contribute support assets, including transport aircraft.
• The mega air exercise comes immediately on the heels of the bilateral Indo-Japan air combat exercise, “Veer Guardian,” which was also hosted at the Jodhpur airbase. The Indian Air Force will field its major frontline operational platforms for the drills, including Rafale and Sukhoi-30 fighter jets.
• Defence officials added that IAF support platforms, including early warning airborne and control (AEW&C) aircraft, transport planes, and air-to-air refuelling tankers, will also take part in the exercise.
• Announcing the 2026 edition of the exercise, the media coordination centre of the Indian Air Force wrote in a post on X that the exercise will feature global Air Forces together for high-octane joint tactical manoeuvres.
• “Exercise Tarang Shakti is back. Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 returns as India’s premier multinational air exercise, bringing global Air Forces together for high-octane joint tactical manoeuvres. Stay tuned as elite aviators take to the skies!” the post read.

MoD Signs Rs 811 Crore Contract With BDL

• Ministry of Defence has inked a contract with Bharat Dynamics Limited for the procurement of 160 Satellite Smart Anti Airfield Weapons (SAT-SAAW) along with associated equipment for IAF with a total cost of Rs 810.79 crore under Buy (Indian – Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category.
• The contract was signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi on September 23, 2026.
• SAT-SAAW is an air-to-ground precision guided glide bomb which can be launched from platforms like Jaguar, Hawk & Su-30 MKI, and has the capability to neutralise enemy airfields from a long stand-off range.
• Indigenously designed and developed by DRDO, the system will have an indigenous content of 60% along with indigenisation of sub-systems like Initial Measurement Unit, Long Impact Delay Fuse and Twin Store Carrier to further boost Aatmanirbharta in defence.
• The delivery of SAT-SAAW is scheduled between 2027-2028 and 2028-2029. Its induction would certainly enhance the operational capability of IAF to continue their unhindered operations and strengthen defence preparedness of the country.

DRDO Inks First High-value Deep Tech Project Agreement

• Under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme, DRDO has signed the first high-value deep tech project agreement with the Industry (Start-up) Zero mK India Private Limited towards collaborative effort for indigenous development of a 20 mK Dilution Refrigerator for Quantum Applications.
• The signing of the agreement took place between Director, TDF and Zero mK India Private Limited, Alwar, Rajasthan in New Delhi.
• It is the first high value agreement under the Rs 500 crore corpus which was earlier approved by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh for deep-tech and cutting-edge projects.
• Dilution refrigerators are specialised cryogenic systems capable of achieving extremely low temperatures in the millikelvin range. Such ultra-low-temperature environment is essential for the operation and testing of several quantum computing platforms and associated quantum technologies.
• The indigenous development of 20 mK-class dilution refrigerator aligns with the National Quantum Mission and strengthens India’s capabilities in quantum technology, advanced cryogenics and strategic technologies, contributing towards a self-reliant, quantum-ready ecosystem.
• This will contribute towards reducing dependence on imported cryogenic infrastructure and strengthening the domestic quantum technology ecosystem.

Culmination of 65^th Edition of Subroto Cup  

• The 65th Subroto Cup International Football Tournament 2026 concluded at the Dr. BR Ambedkar Stadium, where Minerva Public School CISCE, Mohali, defeated MIC EMHSS (Maqdoomiya Islamic Cultural English Medium Higher Secondary School), Kerala, by a score of 3–2 to claim the Junior Boys (U-17) championship title.
• MIC EMHSS mounted a late offensive, narrowing the deficit with a goal in the 65th minute. Despite sustained pressure from the Kerala team in the closing stages of the match, the MPS Mohali defence held firm to secure the 3–2 victory at the final whistle.
• The winners received Rs 5,00,000 (Five Lakh) while the runner up received Rs 3,00,000 (Three Lakh) as prize money.

Exercise KAZIND-2026

• A 60-member Indian Armed Forces contingent departed today for Oskemen, Kazakhstan, to participate in the ninth edition of the India–Kazakhstan Joint Military Exercise KAZIND to be conducted from 28 September to 11 October 2026.
• The Indian contingent is drawn mainly from a battalion of the GARHWAL RIFLES, along with troops from other arms and services, and personnel from the Indian Air Force.
• The Kazakhstan Armed Forces will field a contingent of matching strength, comprising primarily personnel from its Land Forces.
• The exercise aims to enhance interoperability and strengthen the joint capability of both forces to undertake Joint Counter-Terrorism operations in a sub-conventional environment under a United Nations mandate.
• KAZIND-2026 will focus on Joint Counter-Terrorism operations in semi-urban and mountainous terrain, with an emphasis on joint planning and execution, air mobility and the integrated employment of Unmanned Aerial Systems and Counter-UAS capabilities.
• The participating contingents will train together in joint responses to terrorist actions, raids, search-and-destroy missions, cordon-and-search operations, the securing of helipads and landing sites, and Special Heliborne Operations, among other activities.

DRDO, CSIR-CGCRI Join Hands on Rs 50-crore Project

• DRDO has joined hands with CSIR-Central Glass and Ceramic Research Institute (CSIR-CGCRI) as technology partner for a Rs 50-crore project to develop indigenous advanced lightweight bulletproof glass for armoured vehicles.
• The four-year project, being executed with DRDO laboratories including the Naval Materials Research Laboratory in M.H and TBRL in Chandigarh, is at an advanced stage and seeks to take the technology from laboratory development to large-scale manufacturing with an industry partner to be selected by DRDO.
• The project is focused on developing advanced transparent glass-ceramics that can provide multi-shot ballistic protection while being substantially lighter and thinner than conventional transparent armour used in armoured vehicles, the Kolkata-based research lab officials said.
• “The primary objective is to deliver robust multi-shot ballistic protection capable of withstanding direct AK-47 rifle fire from a distance of 100 metres with a defined velocity as per the standard test methods for BIS V and VI,” said Atiar Rahaman Molla, Scientist-F, Specialty Glass Division, CSIR-CGCRI and project leader.
• The project is also expected to facilitate the transition of technology from laboratory-scale development to commercial production through industry participation. CGCRI has received interest from Indian companies for exploring commercial applications of its glass-ceramic technology.

Review Questions

1. INS Nipun belongs to which class of vessels?
   A. Nilgiri Class
   B. Nistar Class
   C. Shivalik Class
   D. Sandhayak Class
   Answer: B. Nistar Class
2. Which organisation indigenously designed and constructed INS Nipun?
   A. Cochin Shipyard Limited
   B. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
   C. Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers
   D. Hindustan Shipyard Limited
   Answer: D. Hindustan Shipyard Limited
3. What is the motto of INS Nipun?
   A. Service Before Self
   B. Shaam, Dam, Dand, Bhed
   C. Far Beneath, Few Beyond
   D. Shano Varuna
   Answer: C. Far Beneath, Few Beyond
4. Who became the first woman officer from the non-medical stream of the Indian
   Defence Forces to attain the rank of Air Vice Marshal?
   A. Air Marshal Vivek Hande
   B. AVM Shakti Sharma
   C. Air Marshal KAA Sanjeeb
   D. Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja
   Answer: B. AVM Shakti Sharma
5. The 16th edition of Aero India is scheduled to be held at which location?
   A. Hindon Air Force Station, Ghaziabad
   B. Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru
   C. Sulur Air Force Station, Coimbatore
   D. Air Force Station Ambala
   Answer: B. Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru
6. Surgeon Vice Admiral Dilip Raghavan assumed the appointment of:
   A. DG Armed Forces Medical Services
   B. DG Naval Medical Services
   C. Director General Hospital Services (Armed Forces)
   D. DG Medical Education
   Answer: C. Director General Hospital Services (Armed Forces)
7. Khagantak-243, recently tested by the IAF, is a:
   A. Air-to-air missile
   B. Long-range glide bomb
   C. Surface-to-air missile
   D. Anti-radiation missile
   Answer: B. Long-range glide bomb
8. Khagantak-243 has been jointly developed by JSR Dynamics and:
   A. HAL
   B. DRDO
   C. Bharat Electronics Limited
   D. Bharat Dynamics Limited
   Answer: C. Bharat Electronics Limited
9. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved acquisition proposals worth
   approximately how much on 7 September 2026?
   A) ₹75,000 crore
   B) ₹90,000 crore
   C) ₹1.10 lakh crore
   D) ₹1.50 lakh crore
   Answer: C) ₹1.10 lakh crore
10. Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL) delivered its 400th fuselage for which
    helicopter?
    A) AH-64E Apache
    B) CH-47F Chinook
    C) ALH Dhruv
    D) Light Combat Helicopter
    Answer: A) AH-64E Apache
11. Which Indian company has partnered with the Javelin Joint Venture to explore
    co-production of Javelin missiles in India?
    A) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
    B) Bharat Dynamics Limited
    C) Tata Advanced Systems Limited
    D) Bharat Electronics Limited
    Answer: C) Tata Advanced Systems Limited
12. Exercise Veer Guardian-2026 conducted between the Indian Air Force and which
    country’s air force?
    A. France
    B. Australia
    C. Japan
    D. South Korea
    Answer: C. Japan
13. What is the approximate expected weight of the light tank being developed
    under Project Zorawar?
    A. 15 tonnes
    B. 20 tonnes
    C. 25 tonnes
    D. 35 tonnes
    Answer: C. 25 tonnes
14. Astrogate Labs is developing an indigenous terminal for which technology?
    A. Optical Inter-Satellite Link
    B. Quantum Radar
    C. Satellite Navigation
    D. Synthetic Aperture Radar
    Answer: A. Optical Inter-Satellite Link
15. Adani Defence & Aerospace signed a five-year agreement with which company
    for supplying ammunition for AK-203 rifles?
    A. HAL
    B. Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited
    C. Bharat Dynamics Limited
    D. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
    Answer: B. Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited
16. The AK-203 rifles are being manufactured at which location in Uttar Pradesh?
    A. Kanpur
    B. Lucknow
    C. Korwa, Amethi
    D. Prayagraj
    Answer: C. Korwa, Amethi
17. The 4th edition of Exercise Samudra Laksamana is being conducted between
    India and which country?
    A. Indonesia
    B. Thailand
    C. Malaysia
    D. Singapore
    Answer: C. Malaysia
18. Which Indian naval ship participated in Exercise Samudra Laksamana 2026?
    A. INS Vikrant
    B. INS Chennai
    C. INS Mysore
    D. INS Kolkata
    Answer: C. INS Mysore
19. Which Russian aircraft is covered under the agreements for supplying 105
    regional aircraft to Indian airlines?
    A. SJ-100
    B. Il-114-300
    C. MC-21
    D. Tu-204
    Answer: B. Il-114-300
20. Kalam Labs has partnered with which French company to develop a hydrogen
    powered UAV for the Indian Air Force?
    A. Dassault Aviation
    B. Airbus Defence and Space
    C. H3 Dynamics
    D. Safran
    Answer: C. H3 Dynamics
21. The 22nd edition of Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026 conducted jointly by India and:
    A. France
    B. Russia
    C. United States
    D. United Kingdom
    Answer: C. United States
22. Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026 conducted simultaneously at Auli and:
    A. Pokhran Field Firing Range
    B. Mahajan Field Firing Range
    C. Deolali Field Firing Range
    D. Babina Field Firing Range
    Answer: B. Mahajan Field Firing Range
23. The ‘Aparajita – Parang La 2026’ expedition was organised by which
    organisation?
    A. Indian Army
    B. Border Security Force
    C. National Cadet Corps
    D. Indo-Tibetan Border Police
    Answer: C. National Cadet Corps
24. Which of the following is an indigenous basic trainer aircraft developed by HAL?
    A. Dhruv NG
    B. HTT-40
    C. LCA Tejas
    D. C-295
    Answer: B. HTT-40
25. SLINEX-26 is a bilateral maritime exercise between India and which country?
    A. Bangladesh
    B. Sri Lanka
    C. Maldives
    D. Indonesia
    Answer: B. Sri Lanka
26. Where is the 13th edition of SLINEX-26 conducted at?
    A. Kochi
    B. Mumbai
    C. Visakhapatnam
    D. Chennai
    Answer: C. Visakhapatnam
27. Which Indian Navy ship participating in SLINEX-26 is an indigenous Anti
    Submarine Warfare Corvette?
    A. INS Jyoti
    B. INS Kavaratti
    C. INS Vikrant
    D. INS Chennai
    Answer: B. INS Kavaratti
28. The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) primarily operates which aircraft for its
    aerobatic displays?
    A. Tejas
    B. Hawk Mk 132
    C. Su-30MKI
    D. MiG-29
    Answer: B. Hawk Mk 132
29. Alfred Tyrone Cooke received the Vir Chakra for his role in which war?
    A. 1947–48 India-Pakistan War
    B. 1962 India-China War
    C. 1965 India-Pakistan War
    D. 1971 India-Pakistan War
    Answer: C. 1965 India-Pakistan War
30. Which school won the Junior Boys U-17 title in the 65th Subroto Cup
    International Football Tournament 2026?
    A. Army Public School, Pune
    B. Minerva Public School, CISCE Mohali
    C. MIC EMHSS, Kerala
    D. Sainik School, Lucknow
    Answer: B. Minerva Public School, CISCE Mohali

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