In a historic move marking the 40th anniversary of the Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 318 and International Women’s Day on March 8, 2024, the Andaman & Nicobar Command successfully executed its first-ever all-women maritime surveillance mission.
Spearheaded by the courageous trio – Lt Cdr Shubhangi Swaroop, Lt Cdr Divya Sharma, and Lt Vaishali Mishra – the crew embarked on this groundbreaking mission from INS Utkrosh, showcasing the evolving dynamics within the Naval Air Arm.
This momentous occasion served to underscore the significant contributions of women in various critical roles across the Naval Air Arm. From pre-flight and meteorological briefings to medical check-ups and Air Traffic Control (ATC) briefings, every aspect of this mission was managed by proficient women officers, signaling a progressive shift towards gender equality in the military sector.
The Andaman & Nicobar Command’s initiative reflects a deep-seated commitment to fostering gender neutrality and ensuring equal opportunities for all members of the Armed Forces. This mission not only celebrates the capabilities and potential of women in undertaking independent operational tasks but also their indispensable role in bolstering national defense and security.
INAS 318, renowned for its continuous engagement in maritime surveillance since its inception on March 8, 1984, has been instrumental in enhancing the nation’s maritime domain awareness. Originally operating with Islander aircraft, the squadron upgraded to Dornier aircraft in 1999, equipped with advanced Maritime Patrol Radars for extended range surveillance. This all-women mission by INAS 318 is a testament to the Indian Navy’s ongoing endeavors to integrate women into combat and operational roles, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse military force.
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