Indian Navy News & Discussions

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[Hindustani78]

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/underwater-reinforcements/article21291920.ece?homepage=true
December 08, 2017 00:15 IST
Updated: December 08, 2017 00:04 IST

On the 50th anniversary of the Navy’s submarine arm, a wake-up call on acquiring dedicated rescue vessel

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba provided the appropriate context for the 50th anniversary of the Indian Navy’s submarine arm, which falls on December 8, when he indicated that the steadily shrinking force levels of the ‘boats’ would be augmented in a significant manner over the next two decades.

Acquisition plan
Admiral Lanba detailed an ambitious acquisition plan for the Indian Navy that includes six diesel electric Scorpene-class submarines; three SSBNs (nuclear-propelled submarines equipped with a nuclear-tipped ballistic missile) to follow INS Arihant; and six SSNs (nuclear-propelled submarines) used in an attack role. When all these boats are operationally inducted, India will have a very credible underwater capability with a judicious mix of conventional and nuclear-propelled submarines.

India acquired its first submarine, the INS Kalvari, on December 8, 1967, six years after the Navy acquired its first aircraft carrier in 1961. In the intervening decades, the nation and its Navy have graduated to designing and indigenously building SSBNs — the INS Arihant. Concurrently, the Navy is also invested in building conventional boats in India through partnership programmes with foreign suppliers. For the record, India is the first country in the world to move straight to designing and building an SSBN, without moving up the scale from conventional boats and then SSNs.

This level of professional accomplishment in the underwater domain has been realised against many odds and much of this has been possible due to the dedication and rigorous professionalism of the human resource that lies at the core of the submarine arm, from its formative years to where it is now poised. Thus it is appropriate that the President’s Colours will be presented to the dolphin arm on Friday in Visakhapatnam.

Submariners the world over are aware that they have chosen what may be the most hazardous and high-risk military specialisation and have internalised the ‘iron-coffin’ syndrome. This is the unstated anxiety of the stoic submarine captain every time a boat dives that if it is unable to surface, the closure is the iron-coffin at the bottom of the sea. To prepare for such an exigency, every submarine-operating navy also invests in a deep submergence rescue vessel (DSRV) or has access to the same with navies that have such a capability.

Accidents and tragic incidents do occur and the Navy’s submarine arm has the ignominy of losing a boat in harbour. The most recent accident is that of the Argentine Navy’s submarine, the San Juan, first reported ‘missing’ on November 15 and now deemed to have been lost with 44 crew members on board, including a lady officer. Sadly, the Argentine Navy did not have a dedicated DSRV and there is considerable speculation if this tragic loss of lives could have been averted had there not been such an inventory void.

It merits notice that the Navy does not have a dedicated DSRV even as it enters its 51st year and this void will be filled only later in 2018. The long-delayed DSRV acquisition symbolises much of the systemic ineptitude that characterises the Indian military machine and its many inadequacies.

Why the delay?
Without sounding like the bad fairy at the party, the inability of the Indian higher defence management ecosystem (from the Cabinet Committee on Security downwards) has resulted in denying the Navy’s submarine arm a critical rescue capability for decades and had a worst-case exigency ever occurred, the price paid would have been very high.

This complacency in decision-making and fecklessness in critical policy formulation have adversely impacted the growth of the Indian military profile in many ways. The submarine trajectory is illustrative. Indigenous submarine-building capability got off to an encouraging start in the mid 1980s with the West Germany yard, HDW. Two boats were acquired from abroad and two were to be built at Mazagon Dock, Mumbai, as the foundation for an indigenous submarine programme.

However, allegations of financial impropriety in the HDW deal led to then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi peremptorily cancelling the whole programme – and the indigenous submarine programme was set back by three decades. Insulating core national security interests from the vagaries of mercurial political/electoral compulsions is a matter that warrants the most serious and urgent deliberation by legislators. Alas, this kind of legislative commitment and nurturing the integrity of decision-making remains an institutional void.

Anniversaries have their own ceremonial symbolism and sanctity and the 50th milestone is to be cherished, but the substantive policy-related issues should not be glossed over. An objective review of lessons learnt for the CCS’ consideration in relation to the Indian submarine story is called for. On a personal note, a hat-tip to the intrepid submariners who shaped my formative years.

C. Uday Bhaskar, a retired Commodore, is Director, Society for Policy Studies, New Delhi

 

[Hindustani78]

President's Secretariat
08-December, 2017 11:40 IST
President of India presents President’s Colour to the Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, presented the President’s Colour to the Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy today (December 8, 2017) in Vishakhapatnam.

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that our maritime interests are directly linked to India’s economy and security, and to the well-being of our people. Over 90 per cent of India’s trade by volume uses the sea route. This enhances the role of the Indian Navy not just in national security but in the wider process of nation building. The Navy is India’s primary instrument of sea power. It is also the guardian of our maritime interests, both military and civilian.

The President said that the sea is an unforgiving medium for those who do not respect it. No one knows this better than the valiant submariners of the Indian Navy, who operate their boats and perform their duties beneath the waves. All of them carry out their professional responsibilities with great skill and at grave risk. The nation is proud of their achievements and appreciates their contribution to national security.

The President said that the Colour is being presented today to the Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy in recognition of extraordinary service to the nation, in peace and war, in the past 50 years. He congratulated submariners on this achievement. He also paid homage to those Indian Navy submariners who have laid down their lives in the service of India and acknowledged the sacrifice of the families of submariners – past and present.

***

Ministry of Defence
08-December, 2017 13:35 IST
Hon’ble President Shri Ram Nath Kovind awards the President’s Colour to the Submarine Arm of Indian Navy

The Hon’ble President of India and the Supreme Commander of Indian Armed Forces, Shri Ram Nath Kovind awarded the President’s Colour to the Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy today, 08 December 2017. The date of 8th December 2017 will remain etched in the history of the Submarine arm in golden letters as the award of Presidents Colour is the highest honour which can be bestowed upon any military unit. The President’s Colour was received by Rear Adm Veenam Srinivas Flag Officer Submarines on behalf of the Submarine Arm at a splendid ceremony at Eastern Naval Command, Visakhapatnam.

Shri ESL Narasimhan, Hon’ble Governor of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Shri N Chadrababu Naidu, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Union Minister of Aviation, Adm Sunil Lanba PVSM, AVSM, ADC, Chief of the Naval Staff and Vice Adm Karambir Singh Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Naval Command along with other senior Defence and Civilian dignitaries were present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Ram Nath Kovind Hon’ble President of India congratulated the Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy and said that the valiant submarines of the Indian Navy carry out their professional responsibility with great skill and grave risk and that the nation is proud of the achievement and appreciates the contribution to national security (full transcript of the address by the Hon’ble President during the Colour Presentation is attached).


The commissioning of the first Submarine, INS Kalvari on 08 Dec 1967 laid the foundation of the Submarine Arm. 2017, the Golden Jubilee year is being celebrated as the “Year of the Submarine” by the Indian Navy. The submarine arm has been at the forefront of all offensive operations of the Indian Navy and played a particularly stellar role in the 1971 Indo Pak war. During the 1971 war four submarines were actively deployed on both the Eastern and Western Maritime theatres of operations in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. Their presence achieved the desired deterrent effect and restricted the enemy operation at sea to a considerable extent.

Personnel of Submarine Arm were awarded one Maha Vir Chakra, two Vir Chakras, one Shaurya Chakra and a number of Mention–in–Dispatches for acts of bravery during the war. The Indian Navy has rich experience of operating six classes of submarines which includes conventional and nuclear submarines. Indian Navy by way of its Maritime Strategy has adopted a strategy of Deterrence to maintain peace. Submarines singularly form the most important pillar of this strategy.

The Indian Navy was first of the three Services to be presented the President’s Colour on 27 May 1951. And today this honour was bestowed on the Submarine Arm in recognition of the yeoman service rendered both in peace and at war.


President's Secretariat
08-December, 2017 11:42 IST
Speech by the Hon’ble President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind on the occasion of presentation of the President’s Colour to the Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy

1. This is my first visit to Vishakhapatnam after being elected as the President of India. This is also my first visit, in my capacity as Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, to an Indian Navy formation. I am happy to be here in the week that we celebrate Navy Day (December 4). And I am especially glad to be presenting the President’s Colour to the Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy.

1. India is a maritime nation and has been so for thousands of years. The port town of Lothal can be traced back to the Harappan civilisation, marking the beginning of an ancient tradition of trade by sea. In later centuries, the Chola Empire and subsequently the Maratha rulers, led by Shivaji, had a well developed navy and a maritime defence strategy. Of course, these are only two examples of many that can be provided.

1. Today, our maritime interests are directly linked to India’s economy and security, and to the well-being of our people. Over 90 per cent of our trade by volume uses the sea route. All this enhances the role of the Indian Navy not just in national security but in the wider process of nation building. The Navy is India’s primary instrument of sea power. It is also the guardian of our maritime interests, both military and civilian.

1. The year 2017 is being commemorated as the Golden Jubilee of the Indian Navy’s Submarine Arm. It was on this day in 1967 that the Naval Ensign and the National Flag were hoisted on the first Indian Naval Submarine, Kalvari. The scheduled commissioning of Kalvari in her new avatar will complete the “Kalvari to Kalvari” journey. It will herald a brighter future for the Submarine Arm of the Navy.

1. In the past 50 years, 25 submarines have been in commission at various points. These submarines and their crew members have been a crucial part of the Indian Navy’s operations. Submarines are complex, high-technology platforms. They acquire their strength from stealth. Quietly and without much fanfare, our submarines have had major operational achievements – in the 1971 War, during Operation Vijay in 1999, and then Operation Parakram, 2002. To date, 17 submarines of the Navy have been awarded the Chief of Naval Staff’s “Unit Citation” for exceptional service.

1. I am happy to note that submarine technology is part of the government’s “Make in India” programme. This will strengthen our capabilities in the years to come.

Ladies and Gentlemen

1. The sea is an unforgiving medium for those who do not respect it. No one knows this better than the valiant submariners of the Indian Navy, who operate their boats and perform their duties beneath the waves. All of you carry out your professional responsibilities with great skill and at grave risk. The nation is proud of your achievements and appreciates your contribution to national security.

1. Submariners of the Indian Navy have excelled in sports and adventure expeditions as well. In 2004, the first successful Indian Naval expedition to Mount Everest was led by a submariner and comprised mainly submariners. The “Submarine Song”, the tune of which you marched to a while ago, has been composed by a serving officer of the Submarine Arm. Indeed, our submariners are multi-talented.

1. The President’s Colour is being presented today to the Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy in recognition of extraordinary service to the nation, in peace and war, in the past 50 years. I congratulate you on this achievement. You are a special community and all submariners, past and present, share a special bond. I am happy to learn that the first Captain of the Indian Navy’s Submarine Arm, Commodore K.S. Subramanian, now in his nineties, has travelled from the United States to be here today. Many of his crew colleagues from a half-century ago are with us. I compliment them and their pioneering spirit.

1. I also pay homage to those Indian Navy submariners who have laid down their lives in the service of India. And finally I would like to acknowledge the sacrifice of the families of submariners– past and present. In their own way, they have all contributed to the nation.

1. In conclusion, I wish the Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy the very best for the future. May you ever rule the waters. And may Varuna, the Lord of the Oceans, ever be auspicious unto you.

Thank you

Jai Hind!

***

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind inspecting the Guard of Honour at the presentation colour to the Navy Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy, at Visakhapatnam, in Andhra Pradesh on December 08, 2017. The Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba is also seen.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind presenting the President’s Colour to the Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy, at a function, at Visakhapatnam, in Andhra Pradesh on December 08, 2017. The Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba is also seen.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind addressing at the presentation colour to the Navy Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy, at Visakhapatnam, in Andhra Pradesh on December 08, 2017.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind being presented a memento by the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba, at the presentation colour to the Navy Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy, at Visakhapatnam, in Andhra Pradesh on December 08, 2017.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind signing the visitors’ book, at the presentation colour to the Navy Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy, at Visakhapatnam, in Andhra Pradesh on December 08, 2017. The Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba is also seen.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind in a group photograph at the presentation colour to the Navy Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy, at Visakhapatnam, in Andhra Pradesh on December 08, 2017. The Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba is also seen.

 

[Hindustani78]

A file photo of INS Sindhukirti, seventh Sindhughosh-class submarine of Indian Navy, being towed in the channel for undertaking sea trials in Visakhapatnam. | Photo Credit: arranged

http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities...-to-kalvari/article21285353.ece?homepage=true

On December 8, 1967, when Commander K.S. Subramanian read out the commissioning warrant in freezing -15 degree Celsius at Vladivostok, submarine base in Russia then USSR, little did he know that he was heralding a force that would one day be a nuclear force and will complete the nuclear triad for the country. Cdr Subramanian commanded the first submarine of the Indian Navy INS Kalvari.

The submarine arm or the silent arm of the Indian Navy is celebrating its golden jubilee this year, and in the last five decades it has grown from a couple of Foxtrot class submarines to possess the Arihant class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBN) to the state-of-the-art Scorpene-class submarines.

The proposal to form a submarine arm was first envisaged in 1959 and a draft plan to acquire four submarines from UK at a cost of ₹16 crore with a recurring annual cost of ₹ 2 crore was moved. But it did not materialise, and it was again moved in 1962 and the government approved the proposal. A nine- member team led by Captain B.K. Dang was sent to UK to undergo training at HMS Dolphin. But the purchase proposal did not again materialise, as India wanted to buy the Porpoise or Oberon class and the British government offered the old ‘T’ class.

It was only in 1964 that the Soviet government agreed for transfer by purchase for four ‘F’ class or Foxtrot-class submarines.

About 16 officers and over 100 sailors received training at Vladivostok and a beginning was made when Cdr. K.S. Subramanian sailed into the Visakhapatnam harbour, braving 16,000 km of rough sea from Riga to Visakhapatnam, on June 6, 1968.

The submarine arm of the Indian Navy came into operation at Visakhapatnam with the then Chief of Naval Staff Admiral A.K. Chatterjee laying the foundation stone for the submarine base.

The silent arm grew with the induction of four more Foxtrot-class submarines such as INS Khanderi, Karanj and Kursura. All the four constituted the 8th Submarine Squadron and have played a key role during the 1970-71 Indo-Pak war. Today, all have been decommissioned and INS Kursura is transformed into a submarine museum and stands on Visakhapatnam beach.

The first full-fledged submarine base had come into existence in the shape of INS Virbahu on May 19, 1971 at Visakhapatnam.

The force grew with the acquisition of four more Foxtrot-class submarines from the then Soviet Union. INS Vela, Vagir, Vagli and Vaghsheer formed the formidable 9th Squadron with the base at Bombay now Mumbai.

From the Foxtrot class, the navy graduated to procure and produce the German-based HDW 1500 class or also called as the SSKs attack submarines, in mid 1980s. Referred to as the Shishumar class, four of them Shishumar, Shankush, Shalki and Shankul formed the 10th Squadron of the arm, based in Mumbai.

Keeping the tempo up, India negotiated with Russia to procure the Kilo-class or the Sindhughosh-class attack submarines. Equipped with the 3M-54 Klub (SS-N-27) anti-ship cruise missiles with a range of 220 km, for the first time India was on the offensive side of submarine warfare.

While Sindhughosh, Sindhudhvaj, Sindhuraj, Sindhuvir , Sindhuratna and Sindhurakshak (exploded and sank in Mumbai harbour on14 August 2013) were based in Mumbai to form the 12th Squadron. Sindhukesari, Sindhukriti, Sindhuvijay and Sindhurashtra were based in Visakhapatnam to form the 11th Squadron.

Nuclear era
The submarine arm entering the nuclear era began with the leasing of INS Chakra an Akula-class nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) from Russia in 1988 and it was based in Visakhapatnam.

Sources in the navy said Chakra was taken on lease to train officers and men with the futuristic idea to build its own nuclear fleet. After the lease of INS Chakra expired, a second Akula Class nuclear submarine INS Chakra II was taken on lease from Russia in 2012.

India built its first nuclear submarine INS Arihant under the Advanced Technology Vessel project at the Ship Building Centre in Visakhapatnam.

INS Arihant the first of the expected five in the Arihant-class is indigenously built with Akula-class technology.

Completing a full 50 years cycle, the Scorpène-class submarine is now being built for the Indian Navy at Mazagon Dock in Mumbai with French design, and they are named after the Kalvari class. The subs will be named after the first batch that served the navy such as Kalvari, Khanderi and Karanj.

President to present colours

As part of the celebrations, President Ram Nath Kovind will be awarding Presidential Colours to the Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy at a Colour Presentation ceremony to be held in Visakhapatnam on December 8.

 

[Hindustani78]

http://www.hindustantimes.com/chand...ke-on-china/story-NtJxE7ceEq0GFvpVEFHnRK.html

Today, sea lanes are as crowded as Delhi’s traffic lanes, said a Brigadier at the Military Literature Festival in Chandigarh.
chandigarh Updated: Dec 08, 2017 22:06 IST
Hindustan Times, Chandigarh

From left: Lt Gen Aditya Singh, Commodore (Retd) Ranjit B Rai, vice-admiral Satish Soni , and Brigadier RJS Dhillon during a panel discussion on the ‘Shape and Contours of the Indian Navy of the Future’ at the Military Literature Festival in Chandigarh on Friday.(Anil Dayal/HT)

Any power that has ruled the world has done so on the strength of its navy. Yet the Indian Navy, seen as the neglected service among the three arms of battle, is now proving to be vital for the progress of India, the only country that has an ocean named after it.

It is in this backdrop that vice-admiral Satish Soni set the ball rolling at the panel discussion on the ‘Shape and Contours of the Indian Navy of the Future’ at the Military Literature Festival in Chandigarh on Friday.

“With the blue economy taking shape and over 90% of trade through sea in a not-so-friendly neighbourhood up North, the enormous responsibility of securing the coastlines rests with the navy,” said Soni.

“Post-26/11, the Indian Navy can raise the threshold of any adversary,” he said.

Being Ambitious

The recent inauguration of the first phase of the Chabahar port, opening up a transit route between Iran, Afghanistan and India that bypasses Pakistan, also shows the change in perception. Brigadier RJS Dhillon said, “Today, sea lanes are as crowded as Delhi’s traffic lanes. Monitoring is tough. An all-out war is not feasible but to maintain supremacy we need, what US president Woodrow Wilson said in 1918, ‘absolute freedom at all times in peace and war beyond eight nautical miles’.”

Dhillon added, “It’s the Indian Ocean but not India’s ocean. Build combat capability but be ambitious and take on China’s growing influence. We need a relook beyond the Straits of Malacca. Force structuring for the long term and working on economic and industrial modernisation should be the strategy.”

Best to indigenise

Lt Gen Aditya Singh, a former commander-in-chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command, said, “India was troubled by land borders so the attention went there. The spin-off of the neglect is that the navy has been the best to indigenise and is the most self-contained of the three services.”

Commodore Ranjit Rai, whose book was released by Punjab chief minister Capt Amarinder Singh, said that the navy had become the epitome of construction and had produced its own nuclear submarine and underwater missile in Sagarika.

 

[Hindustani78]

President Ram Nath Kovind during the presentation of President's Colour to the submarine arm of the Indian Navy at INS Circars Parade Ground in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, on Friday. PTI Photo/RB

http://www.thehindu.com/news/nation...for-securing-trade-routes/article21343570.ece

Colours of valour: President Ram Nath Kovind presenting colours to the submarine arm of the Indian Navy on Friday. | Photo Credit: C.V.Subrahmanyam

VISAKHAPATNAM, December 08, 2017 22:54 IST
Updated: December 08, 2017 22:54 IST


Commends officers and personnel for dedicated service in the last 50 years
President Ram Nath Kovind presented the President’s Colour to the submarine arm of the Indian Navy at the Eastern Naval Command here on Friday, marking its 50th anniversary.

Addressing officers and other naval and services personnel, the President said that 90% of the trade by value used the sea route, and the submarine arm played a big role by protecting these trade routes.

“Our maritime heritage is ancient and can be traced back to the Harappan civilisation. Later, it was taken forward by others such as the Marathas and the Cholas,” he said.

Mr. Kovind said that in the last 50 years, the submarine arm had grown from a couple of submarines in the late 1960s, acquiring and building about 25 more.

The President’s Colour was received on Friday by Rear Admiral Veenam Srinivas, Flag Officer, Submarines.

“Submariners are multi-talented and are extraordinary service personnel, as they work on a very complex high technology platform,” he said. The commissioning of the first Submarine, INS Kalvari, on December 8, 1967, laid the foundation for this specialised arm. The golden jubilee year is being celebrated as the “Year of the Submarine” by the Navy.

Offensive operations

The President said that the submarine arm was at the forefront of all offensive operations such as the 1971 Indo-Pak war, Operation Vijay (Kargil war) in 1999 and Operation Parakram in 2002 involving Pakistan.

E.S.L. Narasimhan, Governor of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, N. Chadrababu Naidu, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Admiral Sunil Lanba, Chief of the Naval Staff, and Vice Admiral Karambir Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Naval Command, and other senior officers were present.

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http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities...-cadets-complete-training/article21362730.ece
KOCHI , December 09, 2017 01:50 IST
Updated: December 09, 2017 01:50 IST

The new officers will join frontline warships of the eastern and the western fleets.


A total of 226 officer trainees of the Navy and the Coast Guard have completed their training with a passing out ceremony held on board the naval ships Tir and Sujata.

They will now join frontline warships of the eastern and the western fleets for the next six months before taking up independent responsibilities.

Trophies presented

The chief guest on the occasion, Rear Admiral R.J. Nadkarni, Chief of Staff of the Southern Naval Command, awarded trophies to the meritorious trainees. The coveted Chief of the Naval Staff trophy and Telescope for the “Best All Round Sea Trainee” was awarded to Sub Lieutenant Tanmay Potbhare.

Sub Lt Aditya Singh received the Binoculars for standing first in overall Order of Merit and Sub Lt Abhishek Jaiswal was awarded the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief East Rolling Trophy for showing maximum progress during the term on board.

Best sportsman

Assistant Commandant S. Sarvana received the Director General, Indian Coast Guard Trophy for the best Coast Guard Sea Trainee while Sub Lt Mohit Dadarwal was adjudged the best sportsman and awarded FOC-in-C South Rolling Trophy.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Defence
12-December, 2017 10:31 IST
Navika Sagar Parikrama - INSV Tarini departs from Lyttelton

The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini left Lyttelton this morning (12 December 2017) for its onward journey to Port Stanley (Falklands). INSV Tarini had arrived at Lyttelton on 29 November 2017 after completion of second leg of its maiden voyage to circumnavigate the globe. This historic circumnavigation attempt by an all-women crew is being led by Lieutenant Commander Vartika Joshi, and the crew comprises Lieutenant Commanders Pratibha Jamwal, P Swathi, and Lieutenants S Vijaya Devi, B Aishwarya and Payal Gupta.

The crew of INSV Tarini was officially welcomed to Lyttelton by Mr Andrew Turner, Deputy Mayor of Christchurch on 29 November 2017. The crew was also welcomed in the traditional Maori culture by members of the community.

Hon'ble MP from Christchurch Central, Mr Duncan Webb also visited the vessel to welcome the crew. The crew had several engagements during its stay in Lyttelton, including call-on meeting with Mayor of City of Christchurch, Ms Lianne Dalziel. The National Council of Women of New Zealand also hosted the crew for an interaction.

INSV Tarini crew had an opportunity to interact with a wide range of stakeholders during the welcome reception hosted by the High Commission on 30 November 2017, which was attended by about 100 distinguished guests, including members of Parliament, state officials, businessmen, academicians, leaders from Indian community and media persons.

INSV Tarini was open to visitors at Lyttelton Port of Christchurch (LPC) on 3 December 2017. Nearly 200 visitors, from all walks, visited the vessel and interacted with the crew. The crew was also welcomed by the city of Christchurch during the traditional festive march, known as the 'Santa Parade'. More than 200 school children attended a presentation and interaction session with the crew at Prebbleton School on 5 December 2017.

The crew also visited the Naval Point Yacht Club, Canterbury and Ara Institute, NZ where a presentation on 'Navika Sagar Parikrama' was given to the audience. The crew visited the traditional Maori cultural centre, 'Rehua Marae' during the port stay. The crew also had a trip to few tourist places near Christchurch, including Hanmer hot springs and the French harbour, Akaroa.

The visit of INSV Tarini to Lyttelton was covered widely in New Zealand print and electronic media, and ethnic media.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Defence
13-December, 2017 18:12 IST
Curtain Raiser : Kalvari to be Commissioned Tomorrow at Mumbai

Regarded as a very prestigious acquisition, INS Kalvari is the most potent platform to have been constructed in India. The construction of the Submarine, designated as MDL Yard 11875 commenced with the first cutting of steel at MDL on 14 Dec 2006. The ‘Boot Together’ of the submarine wherein the five separate sections were welded into one was completed on 30 Jul 2014. Interestingly she is the first Indian Naval vessel to be built using this modular approach of construction. She was hauled out on Pontoon from the East Yard Dry Dock of MDL in the presence of the then Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar on 06 Apr 2015. The submarine was ‘launched’ and christened as ‘Kalvari’ on 27 Oct 2015 by Mrs. Ritu Shrawat, wife of then CMD, MDL, R Adm RK Shrawat (Retd.) by striking a coconut on the hull with a Sanskrit invocation from the Atharva Veda to the Goddess Aditi, mother of the Sun God Surya (Aditya). Kalvari first put to sea on 01 May 2016. She has since undergone a comprehensive trial schedule to validate her capability to Float, to Move, and to Fight Towards the last, she has undertaken successful torpedo launch as well as the Navy’s maiden SM 39 Exocet combat missile firing on 02 Mar 2017. The formal delivery of the boat to the Indian Navy is the last milestone before Commissioning. On completion of trials, the boat was delivered to the Indian Navy by MDL on 21 Sep 2017.


Kalvari is a potent Man o’ War capable of undertaking offensive operations spanning across the entire spectrum of Maritime Warfare. She embodies cutting edge technology and compares favourably with the best in the world. She has an overall length of 67.5 metres and a height of about 12.3 metres. The hull form, the fin and the hydroplanes are specifically designed to produce minimum underwater resistance. Her 360 battery cells (each weighing 750 kg) power the extremely silent Permanently Magnetised Propulsion Motor. Her stealth is further enhanced through the mounting of equipment inside the pressure hull on shock absorbing cradles.


The Boat’s undersea warfare capability comprises a cluster of advanced weapons and sensors integrated into the Submarine Tactical Integrated Combat System (SUBTICS). The sonar suite is Low Frequency Analysis and Ranging (LOFAR) capable enabling long rage detection and classification. Post classification, she may choose to engage the enemy by utilising either the sea skimming SM 39 EXOCET missiles (Flying Fish in French) or the heavy weight wire guided Surface and Underwater Target (SUT) torpedoes. Towards self-defence, she is fitted with mobile C303/S anti-torpedo decoys.


The boats attack and search periscopes are equipped with Infrared/ Low Light Level cameras and Laser Range finders. The boat also has her two 1250 kW MAN Diesel Engines for rapidly charging batteries. The submarine boasts of a highly advanced Combat Management System and a sophisticated Integrated Platform Management System.




The Ship’s Crest


The crests of all Indian Naval ships depict three sail ships at the top commemorating India’s rich maritime heritage. This is followed by the Ashoka Chakra flanked by a Horse and a Bull on either side. The circular lower part depicts a ring of lotus buds encircling the unique badge of each ship with her name written in Devnagiri script.


True to tradition Kalvari’s crest is similarly designed. It depicts Kalvari a Tiger Shark in Malayalam, which symbolises agility, strength and predatory prowess. The Tiger Shark (Galeocerdo Cuvier) a species of Requiem Shark found in tropical and temperate waters is a macropredator, capable of attaining a length of over 5 metres. It is a solitary and mostly nocturnal hunter whose skin pattern resembles the tiger’s stripes. It is known for having the widest food spectrum of all sharks, with a range of prey that includes crustaceans, fish, seals, birds, squid, turtles, sea snakes, dolphins, and even other smaller sharks. Noticeably the shark is superimposed over both ocean and sky, alluding to the boat’s capability of engaging both surface and subsurface targets.


The Ship’s Motto


The submarine’s motto “Ever Onward” epitomises the submarine’s zeal and indomitable spirit. The motto has been imbibed by the crew and inspires them to overcome all odds and to never rest on their laurels as well.


The Ship’s Logo


The submarine’s logo, comprising three distinct yet closely interlinked elements, truly represent the crew’s single minded focus on offensive capability. The external ring in grey symbolises the port hole of an enemy warship. A fearsome steel grey tiger shark representing Kalvari herself is depicted surging through the enemy porthole with deadly intent. The sea in the background is aflame subsequent to the attack. The pattern of the waves in black and orange pays tribute to the Tiger Shark’s namesake the Royal Bengal Tiger. The boat’s name and pennant number, S-21, which is her distinct identity amongst other warships is suitably depicted below the motto. The submarine’s logo is proudly displayed on ceremonial occasions.


History of the Submarine Arm


The history of the Indian Navy’s Submarine Arm can be traced to the dedicated efforts of over a decade that commenced soon after India attained her independence. A modest beginning was made when a team of officers were trained at HMS Dolphin, UK in 1962. The Submarine Arm came into being on 08 Dec 1967 when the Tricolour was hoisted on the first INS Kalvari. Thereon the Foxtrots, with their cheerful and determined crews, set the Arm’s proud traditions. Two of these boats participated in the 1971 Indo-Pak war.

The induction of the 877 EKM (Sindhughosh class) and Type 209 (Shishumar class) brought advancements in technology and fire power. The commissioning of the first Indian built (by MDL) submarine INS Shalki on 07 Feb 1992 heralded the country’s indigenous submarine construction capability. Commissioning of the nuclear powered Chakra–I in 1988 and Chakra–II in 2012 leapfrogged the IN into a select group of nuclear submarine operating navies.


Indeed, from modest beginnings the goal of continually strengthening the Submarine Arm has been diligently pursued. This journey of 50 years has been a saga of passion, grit, determination and commitment. Since inception, the Dolphins have established a strong tradition of willingly accepting the challenges of operating in the unforgiving environment that lies beneath providing both the sword and the shield to the nation.


The insignia of the Submarine Arm is the National Emblem flanked by two dolphins. Dolphins, attendants to Poseidon, the Greek God of the sea and patron deity to sailors, are considered as the sailor’s friends. They were also chosen to represent the Submarine Arm because of the characteristic way in which they dive and surface.


The erstwhile INS Kalvari, the first Indian submarine, was commissioned on 08 Dec 1967, under the command of Commander K.S.Subra-Manian at the Soviet seaport of Riga. Since then the day is aptly celebrated as “Submarine Day” by the Indian Navy. Kalvari embarked on her maiden passage from Riga on 18 Apr 1968 and arrived at Vishakhapatnam on 16 Jul 1968 covering a total of 19,000 nautical miles enroute. After almost three decades of service, the sentinel of the deep was decommissioned on 31 May 1996. After decommissioning Kalvari’s fin has been displayed at Beach Road, Visakhapatnam as part of the city’s Maritime Museum. Kalvari’s original bell as well as the Officers’ Commissioning Plaque was gifted to the Commanding Officer of the new Kalvari in 2015 by the then Commander-in- Chief, Eastern Naval Command, Vice Admiral Satish Soni.

************

Prime Minister's Office
13-December, 2017 14:25 IST
PM to dedicate naval submarine INS Kalvari to the nation tomorrow


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, will dedicate to the nation, the naval submarine INS Kalvari, at Mumbai on Thursday.

The INS Kalvari is a diesel-electric attack submarine that has been built for the Indian Navy by the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited. It is the first of six such submarines that will be inducted into the Indian Navy, and represents a significant success for the "Make in India" initiative. The project has been undertaken with French collaboration.

The Prime Minister will dedicate the submarine at the Naval Dockyard, in the presence of the Defence Minister, important dignitaries of the Maharashtra Government, and senior Naval Officers. He will address the gathering, and undertake a visit of the submarine.

***

 

[Hindustani78]

Prime Minister's Office
14-December, 2017 11:44 IST
PM dedicates INS Kalvari to the nation


The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today dedicated the naval submarine INS Kalvari to the nation, at a function in Mumbai.

Congratulating the people of India on this occasion, the Prime Minister described INS Kalvari as a prime example of "Make in India." He commended all those involved in its manufacture. He described the submarine as an excellent illustration of the fast growing strategic partnership between India and France. He said the INS Kalvari will add even more strength to the Indian Navy.

The Prime Minister said that the 21st century is described as Asia's century. He added that it is also certain that the road to development in the 21st century goes through the Indian Ocean. That is why the Indian Ocean has a special place in the policies of the Government, he added.

The Prime Minister said this vision can be understood through the acronym SAGAR - Security and Growth for All in the Region.

The Prime Minister said India is fully alert with regard to its global, strategic and economic interests in the Indian Ocean. He said that is why the modern and multi-dimensional Indian Navy plays a leading role in promoting peace and stability in the region.

He said the ocean's innate potential adds economic muscle to our national development. That is why, he added, India is well aware of the challenges such as sea-borne terrorism, piracy, and drug trafficking, that not just India, but other nations in the region also have to face. He said India is playing a key role in tackling these challenges.

He said India believes that the world is one family, and is fulfilling its global responsibilities. India has played the role of "first responder" for its partner countries, in times of crisis, he added. He said the human face of Indian diplomacy and Indian security establishment is our speciality. He said a strong and capable India has a vital role to play for humanity. He said countries of the world wish to walk with India on the path of peace and stability.

The Prime Minister said that the entire ecosystem related to defence and security has started to change in the last three years. He said the skill-set accumulated during the manufacture of INS Kalvari is an asset for India.

The Prime Minister said that the Government's commitment has ensured that the long pending issue of "One Rank One Pension" has been resolved.

The Prime Minister said that the Government's policies and the bravery of the Armed Forces have ensured that the use of terrorism as a proxy war in Jammu and Kashmir has not been successful.

The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to all those who have dedicated their lives to the nation's security.

***

Ministry of Defence
14-December, 2017 13:12 IST
Road to development in the 21st century goes through the Indian ocean – Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister

INS Kalvari Commissioned into the Indian Navy



The Honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi commissioned INS Kalvari (S-21), the first of the six Scorpene class submarines built under Project 75 (Kalvari Class) into the Indian Navy at an impressive ceremony held at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai today (14 Dec 17). The event marked the formal induction into the Navy of the first of the six submarines being constructed at Mazagon Docks Ltd., in collaboration with the French builder M/s Naval Group.

Shri Ch. Vidyasagar Rao, the Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister, Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman, Raksha Mantri, Dr. Subhash Bhamre, Raksha Rajya Mantri, Shri Ajit Kumar Doval, National Security Advisior, Admiral Sunil Lanba, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Girish Luthra, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Western Naval Command, Commodore Rakesh Anand (Retd.), CMD, MDL, Commodore Subra-Manian (Retd.), Commanding Officer of erstwhile Kalvari (a Soviet Foxtrot class submarine) and a host of other dignitaries were also present to witness this historic and landmark occasion.

Upon arrival at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, the Prime Minster was received by the Chief of the Naval Staff. The Prime Minster was presented a 100-man Guard of Honour and was introduced to the ship’s officers and other dignitaries present. Congratulating the people of India on this occasion, the Prime Minister described INS Kalvari as a prime example of "Make in India." He commended all those involved in its manufacture. He described the submarine as an excellent illustration of the fast growing strategic partnership between India and France. He said the INS Kalvari will add even more strength to the Indian Navy. The Prime Minister said that the 21st century is described as Asia's century. He added that it is also certain that the road to development in the 21st century goes through the Indian Ocean. That is why the Indian Ocean has a special place in the policies of the Government, he added. The Prime Minister said this vision can be understood through the acronym SAGAR - Security and Growth for All in the Region.

The Prime Minister said India is fully alert with regard to its global, strategic and economic interests in the Indian Ocean. He said that is why the modern and multi-dimensional Indian Navy plays a leading role in promoting peace and stability in the region. He said the ocean's innate potential adds economic muscle to our national development. That is why, he added, India is well aware of the challenges such as sea-borne terrorism, piracy, and drug trafficking, that not just India, but other nations in the region also have to face. He said India is playing a key role in tackling these challenges.

He said India believes that the world is one family, and is fulfilling its global responsibilities. India has played the role of "first responder" for its partner countries, in times of crises, he added. He said the human face of Indian diplomacy and Indian security establishment is our speciality. He said a strong and capable India has a vital role to play for humanity. He said countries of the world wish to walk with India on the path of peace and stability. The Prime Minister said that the entire ecosystem related to defence and security has started to change in the last three years. He said the skill-set accumulated during the manufacture of INS Kalvari is an asset for India.

During his address, the Prime Minister said that the Government's commitment has ensured that the long pending issue of "One Rank One Pension" has been resolved. The Prime Minister said that the Government's policies and the bravery of the Armed Forces have ensured that the use of terrorism as a proxy war in Jammu and Kashmir has not been successful. The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to all those who have dedicated their lives to the nation's security.

Congratulating the MDL for restarting the production line of submarines once again, Mrs Nirmala Sitharaman, the Raksha Mantri thanked the Yard workers, who she said “mattered high on this day”. The process of submarine construction has again been started in the country and it should not stop, the Raksha Mantri said. She emphasized the need to avoid episodic starts and stops in the industry and maintain a pool of skills needed to build high technology platforms within the country, sustenance of which would lead to a virtuous cycle of betterment for Indian industry, retention of skills and better peace dividends to the nation.

Welcoming the gathering, Admiral Sunil Lanba stated that this commissioning marked a milestone in the journey of the Indian Navy towards indigenous submarine building. The Indian Navy is deeply committed to the principle of indigenisation and the Government’s thrust on ‘Make in India’. Commissioning of Kalvari is a testimony of our resolve and these achievements are a result of the Indian Navy’s proactive and integrated approach to achieve self-reliance, the Admiral said.

The Commissioning Warrant of the submarine was thereafter read out by the Commanding Officer, Captain SD Mehendale. Subsequently, hoisting of the Naval Ensign onboard for the first time and ‘Breaking of the Commissioning Pennant’ with the National Anthem being played, marked the completion of the Commissioning Ceremony.

INS Kalvari is manned by a team comprising 08 officers and 35 sailors with Captain SD Mehendale at the helm as her first Commanding Officer. The commissioning will augment the offensive capability of the Indian Navy, and the Western Naval Command in particular.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017. The Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C. Vidyasagar Rao, the Union Minister for Defence, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis and the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Subhash Ramrao Bhamre are also seen.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi commissioning the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017. The Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C. Vidyasagar Rao, the Union Minister for Defence, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Subhash Ramrao Bhamre and the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba are also seen.
CNR :106804 Photo ID :119323

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inspecting the Guard of Honour, at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inspecting the Guard of Honour, at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inspecting the Guard of Honour, at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017. The Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba is also seen.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017. The Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba is also seen.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017. The Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba is also seen.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017. The Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba is also seen.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017. The Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C. Vidyasagar Rao and the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba are also seen.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017. The Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba is also seen.

 

[Hindustani78]

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressing at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressing at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressing at the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari into the Indian Navy, in Mumbai on December 14, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi emplanes for Ahmedabad from Mumbai, after attending the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari, on December 14, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi emplanes for Ahmedabad from Mumbai, after attending the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari, on December 14, 2017.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi emplanes for Ahmedabad from Mumbai, after attending the commissioning ceremony of the Naval Submarine INS Kalvari, on December 14, 2017.

 

[Hindustani78]

December 14, 2017 09:33 IST
Updated: December 14, 2017 14:55 IST
http://www.thehindu.com/news/nation...-kalvari-into-indian-navy/article21618713.ece

''Kalvari is an excellent example of ‘Make in India’ and every defence vehicle, from helicopters to submarines, will be made in India,'' says Prime Minister Modi after putting it into commission in Mumbai.

India's first modern conventional submarine, INS Kalvari, was inducted into the Navy on Thursday, a first in almost two decades.

Putting it into commission in Mumbai, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the efforts of the Navy for its role from disaster management to combating piracy. "Be it terrorism via sea, piracy, drug smuggling or illegal fishing, India is playing an important role in combating them," he said

"I call it SAGAR — security and growth for all in the region," he noted.

INS Kalvari's maiden journey after she is inducted into the Navy.

''Kalvari is an excellent example of ‘Make in India’ and every defence vehicle, from helicopters to submarines, will be made in India,'' he said.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, "Peace in Indian Ocean, which is the lifeline of global trade is better off with INS Kalvari and her follow on submarines."

Kalvari is the first of the six Scorpene-class submarines that will be handed over by shipbuilder Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL) to the Navy. The submarines, designed by French naval defence and energy company DCNS, are being built by MDL in Mumbai as part of Project-75 of the Navy.

“Kalvari is a potent Man o’ War capable of undertaking offensive operations spanning across the entire spectrum of Maritime Warfare. She embodies cutting-edge technology and compares favourably with the best in the world,” the Navy said in a statement on Wednesday.

The Navy last inducted conventional diesel-electric submarine INS Sindhushastra, procured from Russia in July 2000.

Kalvari, named after a deep sea tiger shark, weighs about 1,600 tonnes and carries the sea skimming SM 39 Exocet missiles and the heavyweight wire guided Surface and Underwater Target (SUT) torpedoes. For self-defence, it has mobile anti-torpedo decoys.

Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba, Vice Admiral Girish Luthra, Flag Officer Commanding of the Western Naval Command and top defence officials attended the ceremony.

 

[Hindustani78]

Rear Admiral Alok Bhatnagar, Flag Officer, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area reviewing the Passing Out Parade held at INS Rajali Naval Air Station, Arakkonam on Thursday. Commodore V.K. Pisharody, Commanding Officer, INS Rajali is in the picture. | Photo Credit: Handout/email

http://www.thehindu.com/news/nation...bangladesh-navy-get-wings/article21666875.ece

VELLORE, December 15, 2017 01:25 IST
Updated: December 15, 2017 01:25 IST

As many as 702 pass out from Helicopter Training School

Eight Indian Navy pilots and one Bangladesh Navy pilot were awarded “wings” at the passing-out parade held to mark the graduation of pilots of the 89th Helicopter Conversion Course at Naval Air Station, Rajali, Arakkonam, on Thursday.

Rear Admiral Alok Bhatnagar, Flag Officer, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area, reviewed the parade.

He awarded the Governor of Kerala Rolling Trophy to Lieutenant Ankur Jangra for being adjudged as the Best All Round Trainee Pilot. The Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command Rolling Trophy was presented to Lieutenant Ankur Jangra for standing first in order of merit.

A book prize was awarded to Lieutenant Davis Emanual Veedon for standing first in ground subjects, according to a press release. Commodore V.K. Pisharody, Commanding Officer, INS Rajali was present. The graduated pilots will join operational flights at Kochi, Mumbai and Vizag, the release said.

The pilots underwent rigorous training for 21 weeks in flying and aviation subjects at the Indian Naval Air Squadron 561, the Helicopter Training School (HTS).

702 pilots

A total of 702 pilots for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard have graduated from HTS, which is commanded by Commander Tijo K. Joseph, till date.

The school was initially commissioned at Kochi on September 15, 1971, and was shifted to INS Rajali at Arakkonam in 1992, a release said.

 

[Hindustani78]

http://www.hindustantimes.com/india...ecade-lanba/story-VNIM7SeuY4VrDzs9najznO.html

Navy to double aircraft fleet to 500 in next decade: Sunil Lanba
Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba said the naval air wing has 238 aircraft at the moment. He also said as many as 34 ships and submarines are under construction in Indian shipyards.

Updated: Dec 16, 2017 16:38 IST
Press Trust of India, Hyderabad

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba at a news conference in New Delhi.(PTI File Photo)


The aviation arm of the Indian Navy will double its aircraft fleet in the coming decade to nearly 500, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba said here on Friday.

“We have a naval air wing, which has 238 aircraft at the moment. It has a combination of fighters, helicopters and maritime patrol aircraft, both- long range and short range. And we have a plan in place...in a decade’s time this Naval air wing will grow to close to 500 aircraft of different types,” Lanba said at a press conference.

Lanba reviewed the Combined Graduation Parade at Air Force Academy here.

Replying to a query on the issue of Sabi Giri, an Indian Navy sailor, who was discharged from service for undergoing a sex change surgery, the naval chief said the force cannot take her into direct employment, but is willing to accept her if she comes through any agency as a contract staff.

Defending the termination of the sailor’s employment, Lanba said the Navy is a gender-neutral service but Giri’s actions violated the rules.

“Specifically to the issue of Giri, he was inducted as male in the Navy. And there is no provision in the Navy or in the rules and regulation where you can go and do what he has gone and done. That’s why he has been dismissed from the service for violating the rules and regulations.

“We told the court that we cannot do that (take her into employment). And we have told the court that if a private party is willing to employ her, come as a contract worker in the Navy (as an employee of the private party, not as Navy’s direct employee),” he explained.

“We are a gender-neutral service. We make no distinctions based on gender. We induct both men and women. They both have rigorous training and same rules and regulations are followed,” he added.

The Navy chief said the defence wing is committed to the government’s ‘Make in India’ programme and currently as many as 34 ships and submarines are under construction in Indian shipyards.

Meanwhile, Air Force Academy said, in a statement, that 105 flight cadets passed out today as Flying Officers, including 15 women officers. The officers include two fighter pilots, it said.

 

[Hindustani78]

http://www.deccanherald.com/content/649012/delivery-navys-destroyers-delayed.html
DH News Service, New Delhi, Dec 19 2017, 22:48 IST

The first two ships, to be named INS Visakhapatnam and INS Mormugao on commissioning, were released into the water in April 2015 and September 2016, respectively.

Delivery of the Indian Navy's three most modern destroyers is delayed by nearly three years due to a hold-up on the part of foreign vendors to supply vital arms and equipment for these warships.

As a result, the ships that were to come to the navy between July 2014 and 2018 under project 15B, would now be delivered by dockyard between 2021 and 2022, defence ministry officials said.

The first two ships, to be named INS Visakhapatnam and INS Mormugao on commissioning, were released into the water in April 2015 and September 2016, respectively.

Defence ministry and navy officials informed lawmakers that procurement of arms and sensors for these ships have been delayed.

According to the navy's Rs 29,300 crore contract with the Mazgaon dockyard, the four ships under Project 15B were to be delivered between 2014 and 2018. The first three vessels were to be delivered in 2018, 2020 and 2022.

Late delivery of long-range surface to air missile from Israel and its radar (MFSTAR) also contributed to the deferment of the final delivery of the Visakhapatnam and Mormugao to the navy.

In May, the Indian Navy for the first time fired a Barak-8 missile from INS Kochi - one of its new destroyers. It was followed by another firing in November.

With a delay at the supply end, the defence ministry decided to indigenously manufacture some of the items like the sonar system developed by DRDO and the ship surveillance radar, which would be manufactured by Bharat Electronics Limited.

A decision has also been taken to manufacture the main gun of these ships in India, after Italian company Oto Melara was barred from supplying guns to the navy because of the VVIP helicopter scam that involved its parent company Finmeccanica.

 

[cirr]

http://www.deccanherald.com/content/649012/delivery-navys-destroyers-delayed.html
DH News Service, New Delhi, Dec 19 2017, 22:48 IST

The first two ships, to be named INS Visakhapatnam and INS Mormugao on commissioning, were released into the water in April 2015 and September 2016, respectively.

Delivery of the Indian Navy's three most modern destroyers is delayed by nearly three years due to a hold-up on the part of foreign vendors to supply vital arms and equipment for these warships.

As a result, the ships that were to come to the navy between July 2014 and 2018 under project 15B, would now be delivered by dockyard between 2021 and 2022, defence ministry officials said.

The first two ships, to be named INS Visakhapatnam and INS Mormugao on commissioning, were released into the water in April 2015 and September 2016, respectively.

Defence ministry and navy officials informed lawmakers that procurement of arms and sensors for these ships have been delayed.

According to the navy's Rs 29,300 crore contract with the Mazgaon dockyard, the four ships under Project 15B were to be delivered between 2014 and 2018. The first three vessels were to be delivered in 2018, 2020 and 2022.

Late delivery of long-range surface to air missile from Israel and its radar (MFSTAR) also contributed to the deferment of the final delivery of the Visakhapatnam and Mormugao to the navy.

In May, the Indian Navy for the first time fired a Barak-8 missile from INS Kochi - one of its new destroyers. It was followed by another firing in November.

With a delay at the supply end, the defence ministry decided to indigenously manufacture some of the items like the sonar system developed by DRDO and the ship surveillance radar, which would be manufactured by Bharat Electronics Limited.

A decision has also been taken to manufacture the main gun of these ships in India, after Italian company Oto Melara was barred from supplying guns to the navy because of the VVIP helicopter scam that involved its parent company Finmeccanica.

Taking10 years for India to build a bloody destroyer. And that over 80% is foreign.

I am really really really impressed by you guys.