MCQs - 2026-04

The exercise focused on practical maritime threats like piracy, terrorism, and illegal fishing, which are relevant to the security of the Arabian Sea and the wider Indian Ocean Region.

Joint exercises like 'Varuna' align with India's foreign policy objective of promoting a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.

The 2026 edition of 'Varuna' included complex naval drills such as anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-air warfare (AAW).

The core objective of 'Varuna' is to improve the interoperability and coordination between the naval forces of India and France for effective maritime operations.

'Varuna' is a long-standing bilateral naval exercise conducted between the Indian Navy and the French Navy.

The LCH 'Prachand' is a prime example of India's growing capability in designing, developing, and manufacturing advanced indigenous defense platforms.

While attack helicopters are designed for offensive roles like close air support, anti-tank, and anti-infantry operations, troop transport is typically the role of utility or transport helicopters.

Deploying attack helicopters like 'Prachand' to forward bases enhances the air force's ability to project power and respond quickly to threats in the region.

The LCH 'Prachand' is specifically designed to operate effectively in high-altitude conditions, which is crucial for the mountainous terrain of India's northern borders.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is the manufacturer of the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) 'Prachand'.