NEWS 02-09-2018. NEWS FOR 3-SEP (MONDAY) 1. The fourth Bay Of Bengal Initiative for Multi-SectoralTechnical and Economical Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is going to be held at Kathmandu, Nepal.The main issues which is likely to be emphasized upon are connectivity, counter-terrorism, radicalisation and maritime security. 2. Japanese Defence Minister IstunoriOnederarecently paid visit to Sri Lanka and discussed ways to boost maritime security in the Indian ocean region.Sri Lanka has a strategic location as it lies between the Middle East and Straits of Malacca. 3. Central Government has sanctioned Rs. 1623 crore for development of O-SMART(Ocean Services, Technology, Observations, Resources Modelling and Science).It will help in early detection of disaster near coastal region. 4. The third edition of Indian Ocean Conference was held in Hanoi, Vietnam from 27-28 August 2018.Indian external affairs Mrs. SushmaSwaraj said during the meeting that maintaining peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region was an important priority for India's foreign policy. 5. India’s only carrier INS Vikramaditya for the first time will be fitted with marine hydraulic system to boost the air operations of the ship.It will be fitted with two marine hydraulic systems “GS-1MF” and “GS-3” . 6. Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved procurement of 150 indigenously designed and developed 155 mm Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems forIndian Army at approximate cost of Rs 3,364.78 crores. 7. Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved procurement 24 anti-submarine capable multi role helicopters to enhance capability of Indian Navy at sea.Thecontract is going to be signed with US based aviation giant Lockheed Martin for purchasing 24 MH-60R helicopters for Indian Navy. < < Back