Daily Current Affairs : 26-April-2024

The Indian Air Force (IAF) lately celebrated a huge fulfillment with the successful test firing of the air-launched ballistic missile referred to as Crystal Maze 2, or ROCKS. This missile is an important addition to India’s defense abilities, as it can hit targets positioned over 250 kilometers away.

About Crystal Maze 2 (ROCKS)

Crystal Maze 2, developed via Israel, is classified as a medium-range ballistic missile. Here are some key features:

  • Strike Range: Over 250 kilometers
  • Type: Air-to-surface missile
  • Design Purpose: It is specifically designed to operate in GPS-denied environments. This means it can still effectively target enemies even if satellite navigation is not available.

Targeting Capabilities

The missile is engineered to strike high-value stationary and relocatable targets. Some of the primary targets include:

  • Long-range radar systems
  • Air defense systems
  • Other critical military installations

These capabilities make Crystal Maze 2 a critical asset for the IAF, enhancing India’s ability to protect its airspace and respond to threats.

Importance of the Test

The successful test firing of the Crystal Maze 2 marks a significant milestone for the IAF. This achievement highlights several important aspects:

  • Enhanced Defense: The missile boosts India’s airstrike capabilities, allowing the military to engage high-value objectives effectively.
  • Technological Advancement: It showcases India’s commitment to developing advanced military technologies.
  • Strategic Deterrence: With the ability to strike deep into enemy territory, the missile strengthens India’s deterrent posture.

Important Points:

  • Significant Achievement: The Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully test fired the Crystal Maze 2 (ROCKS) missile.
  • Missile Overview:
  • Developed by Israel.
  • Classified as a medium-range ballistic missile.
  • Strike range exceeds 250 kilometers.
  • Designed as an air-to-surface missile.
  • GPS-Denied Operation: Capable of targeting enemies even without satellite navigation.
  • Targeting Capabilities:
  • Engineered to strike high-value stationary and relocatable targets.
  • Primary targets include long-range radar systems, air defense systems, and critical military installations.
  • Enhanced Defense: Improves India’s airstrike capabilities, allowing effective engagement of high-value objectives.
  • Technological Advancement: Demonstrates India’s commitment to developing advanced military technology.
  • Strategic Deterrence: Strengthens India’s ability to strike deep into enemy territory, enhancing its deterrent posture.

Why In News

The Indian Air Force (IAF) achieved a significant milestone with the successful test firing of an air-launched ballistic missile known as ROCKS or Crystal Maze 2, which is capable of hitting targets over 250 kilometers away, thereby enhancing India’s defense capabilities and deterrent posture in the region.

MCQs about Crystal Maze 2

  1. What is the primary function of the Crystal Maze 2 missile?
    A. Air-to-air combat
    B. Air-to-surface targeting
    C. Space exploration
    D. Naval warfare
    Correct Answer: B. Air-to-surface targeting
    Explanation: The Crystal Maze 2 is classified as an air-to-surface missile, designed to strike ground-based targets.
  2. What is the maximum strike range of the Crystal Maze 2 missile?
    A. 100 kilometers
    B. 250 kilometers
    C. 300 kilometers
    D. Over 250 kilometers
    Correct Answer: D. Over 250 kilometers
    Explanation: The missile has a strike range that exceeds 250 kilometers, allowing it to engage distant targets effectively.
  3. Which of the following is a key feature of the Crystal Maze 2 missile?
    A. It can only operate with GPS assistance.
    B. It is designed for naval engagements.
    C. It can function in GPS-denied environments.
    D. It is a long-range cruise missile.
    Correct Answer: C. It can function in GPS-denied environments.
    Explanation: One of the missile’s design purposes is to effectively target enemies even when satellite navigation is unavailable.
  4. What does the successful test firing of the Crystal Maze 2 signify for the Indian Air Force?
    A. A decrease in military capabilities
    B. A step backward in technological development
    C. Enhanced defense and deterrent posture
    D. An end to military development
    Correct Answer: C. Enhanced defense and deterrent posture.
    Explanation: The successful test firing improves India’s ability to defend its airspace and strengthens its strategic deterrent posture in the region.

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