GS Paper III · Science & Tech
Defence Technology Current Affairs for UPSC (GS Paper III)
From the syllabus: Science and technology: developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; achievements of Indians; indigenization of technology; awareness in IT, space, computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology; intellectual property rights
Why it matters: Aspirants need to analyze indigenization policies, public private partnerships, and domestic manufacturing capabilities required to reduce heavy reliance on foreign military hardware.
In the news
September 2026
16 Sep 2026
Vulnerabilities in Space Warfare and Commercial Satellite NetworksRecent analyses on space-based warfare highlight severe risks posed by orbital weapons and targeted strikes on commercial satellite constellations. As developing economies increasingly rely on third-party satellite networks for...
06 Sep 2026
India Plans Procurement of Javelin Anti-Tank Guided Missile SystemsIndia is evaluating the acquisition and possible co-production of the American Javelin anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) system to strengthen infantry strike capabilities along contested borders. The man-portable, fire-and-forget weapon...
05 Sep 2026
Dual-Use Satellite Constellations and Modern Hybrid WarfareThe deployment of commercial Low Earth Orbit (LEO) mega-constellations like Starlink in active conflict zones has highlighted the vital role of dual-use space assets in modern warfare. LEO satellites deliver low-latency broadband...
02 Sep 2026
Defence PSUs Urged to Reduce Import DependenceDefence Minister Rajnath Singh instructed Defence Public Sector Undertakings to significantly cut down reliance on foreign imports. Recent global conflicts demonstrate that assured domestic supply chains, rapid repair, and sustained...
August 2026
29 Aug 2026
CISF Strengthens Counter-Drone Infrastructure for Critical AssetsThe Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has signed an agreement to enhance counter-drone capabilities and specialized training for its personnel. As the nodal security agency guarding 370 critical installations nationwide,...
26 Aug 2026
UN and Red Cross demand binding rules on lethal autonomous weaponsThe United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross have intensified calls for legally binding international regulations on autonomous weapons systems, commonly called killer robots. The organizations warned that...
24 Aug 2026
Gaganyaan Mission Outlines Advanced Crew Escape System DesignDetails regarding the safety mechanisms for ISRO's Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission highlighted the high-thrust 'puller' design of the Crew Escape System (CES). The system is engineered to detect launch vehicle anomalies within...
22 Aug 2026
Cochin Shipyard Delivers INS Mangrol to Indian NavyCochin Shipyard has delivered the indigenously built warship INS Mangrol to the Indian Navy. The vessel is named after the coastal township of Mangrol in Gujarat, representing continued progress in domestic defence shipbuilding. It...
20 Aug 2026
India and Japan to Strengthen Maritime Security and Defence TechnologyDefence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Japanese counterpart will hold high level discussions to expand strategic trust in the Indo-Pacific region. The meeting will focus on enhancing joint naval cooperation, defense technology sharing,...
July 2026
24 Jul 2026
DRDO Conducts Flight Test of Project Kusha Air Defence SystemThe Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted a flight test of Project Kusha, India's indigenous long-range air defence system. Designed to detect and destroy incoming enemy aircraft, drones, and...
13 Jul 2026
Commissioning of INS Mahendragiri highlights India's self-reliance in warship buildingThe commissioning of INS Mahendragiri, an advanced stealth frigate built under Project 17A, showcases India's growing indigenous naval design and shipbuilding capabilities. Constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, the vessel is...
09 Jul 2026
Russia Deploys Electronic Jamming Against Ukrainian Starlink TerminalsRussian forces have increasingly deployed advanced electronic warfare systems to jam and disrupt SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet terminals used by the Ukrainian military. Starlink has been crucial for Ukraine's real-time...
09 Jul 2026
Indonesia to Procure India's Indigenous Astra Air-to-Air MissileIndonesia has finalized a deal to purchase India's indigenous Astra beyond-visual-range (BVR) air-to-air missiles. Developed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Astra's export marking is a significant boost...
08 Jul 2026
India-Indonesia Strategic Ties and Defense DealsPrime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Indonesia's highest civilian honour, the Bintang Adipurna, during his visit to Jakarta. The visit saw the signing of critical defense agreements, including the export of BrahMos supersonic...
07 Jul 2026
India and Indonesia Ink BrahMos and Critical Mineral DealsDuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi's bilateral visit, India and Indonesia signed landmark agreements for the export of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and cooperation in critical mineral supply chains. The Indonesian government also...
07 Jul 2026
Prime Minister Embarks on Strategic Three-Nation Tour Starting with IndonesiaPrime Minister Narendra Modi has commenced a three-nation visit, starting with Indonesia to enhance bilateral strategic relations with President Prabowo Subianto. The visit will subsequently cover Australia and New Zealand, emphasizing...
06 Jul 2026
Indigenous Stealth Frigate Mahendragiri to be CommissionedThe Indian Navy is set to commission the indigenous stealth frigate Mahendragiri this week. Part of Project 17A, the vessel incorporates advanced stealth features, indigenous weapons, and sensors, strengthening India's maritime security...
05 Jul 2026
The Enduring Role of Main Battle Tanks in Modern High-Tech WarfareDespite the widespread use of armed drones, precision-guided missiles, and loitering munitions in contemporary conflicts, military strategists argue that Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) remain indispensable. Drawing lessons from the war in...
Practise Defence Technology
10 of our latest questions on this topic (out of 24).
Question 1 of 10
Recent reports regarding dual-use technology risks in conflict zones highlighted concerns about non-state actors attempting to use AI for:
Mains practice
India's pursuit of strategic autonomy in an increasingly fragmented global order requires balancing technological self-reliance, resilient critical infrastructure, and credible domestic regulatory governance. Discuss with relevant examples.
15 marks
Building sustainable national resilience requires aligning strategic self-reliance, regulatory integrity, economic stability, and environmental protection. Discuss this statement by analyzing recent challenges facing India across defence manufacturing, public service delivery, and ecological conservation.
15 marks
The successful orbital launch of Vikram-1 by Skyroot Aerospace marks a turning point in India's space program. Analyze the opportunities and strategic challenges associated with scaling up private sector participation in strategic sectors like space and defense. Suggest an effective regulatory framework that balances commercial innovation with national security requirements.
15 marks
Previous years' questions
Past exam questions sorted by topic are coming here. Until then, the full papers are in our previous papers library.